Cider : Book Review

Annie Proulx's novel "Cider" takes readers on a captivating journey through the lives of the Cliffs, a family of cider producers in rural Vermont. This beautifully crafted story delves into themes of family, tradition, and the impact of societal changes on rural communities.

The central character of the story is Mero, a enigmatic figure deeply rooted in the land and the art of cider-making. Proulx skillfully unravels Mero's complexities, exploring his desires, failures, and the relationships that shape his life. Mero's passion for cider is palpable, and readers will be enthralled by his unwavering pursuit of perfection in his craft.

Proulx's writing style is nothing short of exquisite. Her vivid descriptions and attention to detail bring the orchards and cider-making process to life, immersing readers in the sights, smells, and sounds of this world. With her rich and evocative language, Proulx transports readers to the heart of the small, close-knit community that revolves around the orchards.

One of the remarkable aspects of "Cider" is Proulx's commendable ability to illustrate the changing seasons and the laborious process of turning apples into cider. Through her prose, readers gain a deep appreciation for the beauty and hard work involved in preserving tradition in the face of modernization.

However, "Cider" is more than just a story about apples and cider-making. It delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the struggles of rural communities trying to protect their way of life. Proulx delicately explores the tension between tradition and progress and how it affects her characters. The narrative beautifully captures the challenges faced by rural communities, making the story not only thought-provoking, but also highly relevant.

What are readers saying?

Annie Proulx's novel "Cider" has received a variety of reviews from readers. The book delves into the lives of two families in rural New England, exploring themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

Many readers expressed admiration for Proulx's elegant and poetic writing style. They found her prose to be vivid and atmospheric, effectively transporting them to the scenic New England countryside and immersing them in the world of apple orchards and cider making. The detailed descriptions of nature and the characters' deep connection to the land were particularly well-received, as they brought the setting to life in a captivating way.

However, a few readers felt that the story lacked momentum and failed to develop a compelling plot. They found the narrative to be meandering and aimless, which made it difficult to stay engaged. Some reviewers also noted that they struggled to connect with the characters, as they lacked depth and development. This lack of emotional investment made it challenging for readers to sustain interest in the book.

Despite these criticisms, several readers appreciated the multi-generational aspect of the story. They found Proulx's portrayal of the passage of time and its impact on the characters and their relationships to be insightful and powerful. The exploration of family dynamics, hidden secrets, and the consequences of choices made by previous generations were thought-provoking and well-executed, resonating with many reviewers.

The inclusion of folklore and elements of magical realism within the narrative was a point of contention among readers. Some enjoyed the touch of whimsy, as they felt it added depth to the overall story. Others, however, felt that these elements detracted from the realism portrayed in the rest of the book.

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