Set in a small mining town in England, the novel follows the life of a young boy who, despite his bleak surroundings and abusive family, finds solace and a sense of purpose in training a kestrel. He learns about falconry from a book he steals from his school library. His connection with the bird offers a brief respite from his harsh reality, but tragedy strikes when his brother kills the bird out of spite. The story ends with the boy forced to return to his grim reality, with his only source of happiness gone.

The novel is a poignant exploration of a man's relationship with his father and his own identity. Set in Norway, it follows the protagonist's decision to live in solitude after the death of his wife and sister. Through a series of flashbacks, he recalls his childhood, particularly the summer of 1948 when he lived with his father in the country. As he delves into his past, he uncovers his father's involvement in the resistance during World War II and the lasting impact it had on their relationship and his own life. The narrative intertwines the past and the present, reflecting on themes of loss, betrayal, and the complexity of human relationships.

This novel explores the harrowing journey of an African American man in the rural South, who, after years of enduring economic hardship and the oppressive racial dynamics of the mid-20th century, abandons his family in search of a better life. The narrative delves into the consequences of his actions, particularly on his wife and son, and examines the cycle of violence, poverty, and despair that plagues his community. As he returns home years later, seeking redemption and a third chance at life, the story poignantly addresses themes of resilience, the impact of systemic racism, and the possibility of personal transformation amidst seemingly insurmountable challenges.

This novel is set in the small town of Holt, Colorado, and explores the intertwining lives of its residents. The narrative focuses on a high school teacher raising two sons after his wife leaves him, a pair of bachelor brothers who have lived together on their family farm for decades, and a pregnant teenager kicked out of her home. The characters' lives intersect in unexpected ways, offering a poignant exploration of community, resilience, and the human capacity for connection and kindness.

"The Able McLaughlins" is a historical novel set in the 19th century, revolving around a Scottish immigrant family in Iowa. The story follows Wully McLaughlin, the eldest son, who returns home from the Civil War only to discover that his sweetheart, Chirstie, has been violated and is pregnant. Wully marries her to protect her honor, and sets out to find the man responsible, leading to a dramatic climax. The novel explores themes of family, honor, justice, and the immigrant experience in America.

"The Town" is the final installment in a trilogy depicting the pioneering American spirit. It follows Sayward Wheeler, the daughter of a pioneer, as she witnesses the transformation of the Ohio wilderness into a bustling town. She experiences the joy and pain of motherhood, the comfort and loneliness of marriage, and the satisfaction and despair of building a home, all while observing the encroachment of civilization on the wilderness she loves. The novel explores themes of progress, change, and the cost of civilization.

This novel is a powerful portrayal of the life of an African American woman named Mary, who grows up in a religious community in the South during the early 20th century. Mary, who is initially a devout follower of her faith, is led astray by her desires and ends up bearing many children out of wedlock. Her community ostracizes her for her transgressions and she must find a way to survive and care for her children on her own. The story explores themes of faith, sin, redemption, and resilience in the face of adversity.

"So Big" is a novel that follows the life of Selina Peake De Jong, a woman who moves from Chicago to a rural Dutch community in Illinois after the death of her father. She becomes a school teacher and marries a farmer, living a life of hardship and poverty. Despite the challenges, she instills a love of beauty and art in her son Dirk, who grows up to become a successful architect. The book explores themes of resilience, the American Dream, and the often overlooked value of hard work and artistic integrity.