Harley Atlinger, the hero of Tawni O’Dell’s debut novel, is a young man with serious baggage. With his mother in prison for murdering his father, Harley at nineteen finds himself in charge of three younger sisters. Working two jobs, with his family facing grinding poverty, Harley is haunted with memories of his abusive upbringing. He is also troubled by the need to satisfy his ever-growing libido. It’s a task that would try the strongest person, but Harley is far from perfect. He is more comfortable swilling beer and attempting to forget his troubles. He is also more than a little bit crazy. Nonetheless, he is determined to live his life, and unlock the answers to his family’s darkest secrets along the way.
This masterful mixture of comedy and tragedy was an Oprah’s Book Club selection.
Reviewed by Brian Mitchel, Walls Branch Public Library
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