The Ruins of California : Book Review

"The Ruins of California" by Martha Sherrill is a captivating novel that takes readers on a journey through the tumultuous 1960s. The story revolves around the eccentric Pomander family, with a focus on the youngest daughter, Elsa, as she navigates her way through a small California town.

Elsa, a young and introspective girl, finds herself struggling to fit into her unconventional family. Her parents, Errol and Lily, are former Hollywood stars who have become idiosyncratic relics of the past. Sherrill skillfully captures the intricacies of the Pomander family dynamics as they face personal struggles and societal pressures.

Throughout the book, readers witness Elsa's coming-of-age journey and her quest for personal identity. Sherrill's descriptive prose creates a vivid and evocative portrayal of 1960s California, setting the stage for Elsa's search for meaning and a sense of belonging against the backdrop of social and political unrest.

The characters in "The Ruins of California" are fully developed and come to life on the pages. Sherrill expertly weaves together the stories of not only the Pomander family but also the supporting cast, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. The interactions between characters feel genuine and are filled with emotional depth, making them relatable to readers.

Martha Sherrill's novel offers a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of a transformative period in American history. Through the lens of the Pomander family, readers gain insight into the shifting social values and cultural landscape of the 1960s. Sherrill's exquisite storytelling and rich character development make "The Ruins of California" a compelling read for those interested in family dramas and coming-of-age stories set amidst a backdrop of societal change.

What are readers saying?

Martha Sherrill's novel, "The Ruins of California," has garnered a range of reviews, showcasing its ability to captivate readers. Set in 1968, the story follows the eccentric Bullock family as they navigate personal and societal upheavals, creating an engaging journey.

The majority of reviewers praised Sherrill's vivid and atmospheric writing style, which effectively captures the essence of the time period. Readers commended her talent in bringing the characters to life, with many describing them as multi-dimensional and intriguing. The family dynamics and individual struggles were highlighted as some of the book's strongest assets, providing a heartfelt and emotional narrative.

Many readers were particularly drawn to the historical and cultural aspects of the story. Sherrill's portrayal of 1960s California and the countercultural movements resonated with readers, evoking a sense of nostalgia. The author's attention to detail and thorough research were appreciated, transporting readers back in time and immersing them in the backdrop of the story.

However, a few reviewers found the pacing of the novel to be slow at times, which hindered their overall enjoyment. Additionally, some readers mentioned that the plot felt somewhat disjointed, making it challenging to fully engage with the narrative. These criticisms suggest that while the book offers an authentic portrayal of the era, it may lack the necessary momentum to keep all readers fully captivated.

Overall, "The Ruins of California" by Martha Sherrill received generally positive reviews. Readers praised the author's skillful writing and her ability to create memorable characters. The historical and cultural elements of the story added depth to the narrative, although some felt that the pacing and plot structure could have been stronger. If you're interested in a poignant and atmospheric family drama set against the backdrop of 1960s California, this book may be worth exploring.

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