The World Made Straight : Book Review

"The World Made Straight" by Ron Rash is an engaging and thought-provoking novel set in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. The story revolves around Travis Shelton, a troubled young man who gets involved with a local drug dealer and is thrust into a world of violence. Through his encounters with a former teacher and a reclusive farmer, Travis is confronted with the consequences of his choices and forced to confront his own moral compass.

Rash's writing is both poetic and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the rural landscape and the people who inhabit it. He delves into themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the inherent darkness that exists within us all. The tension in the narrative steadily builds, keeping readers engaged and eager to unravel the mysteries surrounding Travis and the individuals he crosses paths with.

The characters in "The World Made Straight" are multi-dimensional and well-crafted, each with their own personal struggles and motivations. Travis, in particular, undergoes a significant transformation as he grapples with his troubled past and strives to build a better future. The relationships between the characters add depth and complexity to the overall storyline.

One of the novel's strengths lies in Rash's ability to capture the raw beauty and harsh realities of life in the Appalachian region. His descriptions of the landscape are breathtaking and not only serve as a backdrop but also mirror the internal struggles of the characters. It is evident that Rash possesses a deep understanding and appreciation for the setting, which shines through in his expressive prose.

In conclusion, "The World Made Straight" is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of redemption, morality, and the complexities of human nature. Rash's powerful storytelling and vivid descriptions make for an engaging read that lingers in the minds of readers long after the final page is turned.

What are readers saying?

The World Made Straight by Ron Rash has garnered mixed reviews from readers. Some readers found the book captivating and thought-provoking, praising its exploration of themes such as redemption and the consequences of one's actions. They commended Rash's writing style and the depth he brought to the characters, often describing the book as a real page-turner.

Conversely, other readers felt that the story progressed slowly and had difficulty engaging with the characters. They believed the plot lacked excitement and struggled to connect with the narrative. Some critics also questioned the development of certain characters, feeling they were not fully realized or lacked depth.

However, many readers appreciated the historical context of the novel, which is set in the Southern Appalachians during the Civil War era. They felt it added depth and commended Rash's ability to vividly depict the setting and create a strong sense of place.

The World Made Straight also received praise for its exploration of complex moral dilemmas. Readers appreciated how the book delved into the consequences of the characters' choices and actions, compelling them to confront the implications of their decisions. The exploration of redemption and second chances also resonated with many readers, as they found it thought-provoking and introspective.

Overall, opinions on The World Made Straight were divided. While some readers were enthralled by the book's captivating storyline, well-developed characters, and exploration of complex themes, others found it lacking in excitement and struggled to connect with the narrative. Nonetheless, the historical context and exploration of moral dilemmas received praise from a significant number of readers.

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