American Spirits

Three dark, interlocking tales about the residents of a rural New York town and the shocking headlines that become their local mythologies are presented in American Spirits, a collection of stories by Russell Banks. The stories explore the hostile undercurrents of communities and politics, as well as the ways local tragedies can be devastating and everyday.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 09 May 2024
Publisher: Bedford Square Publishers

From the pen of one of America's most celebrated storytellers comes a trilogy of dark, interconnected tales set in the rural town of Sam Dent, New York. These tales are intertwined with shocking headlines that become the local mythologies of the town.

In the first story, a husband sells his property to a mysterious and temperamental stranger, only to be relentlessly hounded on social media when he publicly questions the stranger's character. The stranger's actions and behavior begin to cause unease in the community, and the husband finds himself caught in the middle of a media storm.

The second story revolves around a couple who grow increasingly concerned when an enigmatic family moves next door. The children of the family start sneaking over to their house, begging for help. The couple is initially hesitant to get involved, but as they learn more about the family's dark secrets, they realize that they may be in grave danger.

The third story is about two dangerous criminals who kidnap an elderly couple and begin blackmailing their grandson, demanding that he pay back what he owes them. The grandson is desperate to find a way to save his grandparents, but he is also terrified of the criminals who hold him hostage. The story explores the complex dynamics of family relationships, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions.

American Spirits is a suspenseful, thrilling, and expertly crafted novel that delves into the hostile undercurrents of communities and politics at large. It also explores the ways in which local tragedies can be both devastating and, somehow, everyday. Russell Banks has etched yet another brilliant entry into the bedrock of American fiction with this captivating trilogy.

Through the town of Sam Dent, Banks takes the reader on a journey that is both intimate and expansive. The characters are well-developed, and the reader is able to connect with them on a personal level. The writing is vivid and descriptive, and the reader is transported to the heart of the town and its surrounding countryside.

American Spirits is a powerful exploration of the human condition, and it raises important questions about the nature of truth, justice, and the consequences of our actions. It is a must-read for anyone who loves literature and is interested in exploring the darker side of human nature.

Weight: 156g
Dimension: 198 x 128 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781915798923