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Bastard Out of Carolina
336 pages, 2012
fiction
1382 booksGreenville County, South Carolina, is a wild and lush place that is home to the Boatwright family—a tight-knit clan of rough-hewn, hard-drinking men who shoot up each other's trucks, and indomitable women who get married young and age too quickly.
At the heart of this story is Ruth Anne Boatwright, known simply as Bone, the illegitimate child who observes the world around her with a mercilessly keen perspective.
When her stepfather Daddy Glen, cold as death and mean as a snake, becomes increasingly more vicious toward her, Bone finds herself caught in a family triangle that tests the loyalty of her mother, Anney.
Dorothy Allison's Bastard Out of Carolina explores the theme of resilience through the main character, Bone. Despite the hardships and abuse she faces, Bone's spirit remains unbroken. This book encourages readers to find their inner strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
The book provides a deep look into the complexities of family relationships. It shows how family dynamics can shape a person's life, for better or worse. It's a reminder to take a closer look at our own family relationships and how they've influenced who we are.
Allison doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh realities of poverty. She paints a vivid picture of the struggles and hardships faced by the poor in the South. This book encourages readers to research and understand the impact of poverty on individuals and society.
Bastard Out of Carolina explores the concept of identity. Bone's struggle with her illegitimate status and her search for acceptance is a central theme in the book. It encourages readers to explore their own identities and accept who they are.
The book provides a heartbreaking look into the cycle of abuse. It shows how abuse can be passed down through generations and the devastating effects it can have. It's a call to action for readers to break the cycle of abuse in their own lives and in society.
Quotes 5
Bastard Out of Carolina is a novel that reads as a harrowing map of the heart. It is a triumph, an unforgettable journey.
Barbara Kingsolver - Novelist, Essayist, PoetDorothy Allison has crafted a story of survival so vivid, it has the power to sear the soul.
Alice Walker - Author, ActivistBastard Out of Carolina is raw, it's ugly, it's upsetting, it's real, and it's beautifully written.
Stephen King - Horror Fiction AuthorDorothy Allison's narrative is a brave, empowering tale of resilience that resonates deeply.
Maya Angelou - Poet, MemoiristBastard Out of Carolina is a masterful novel that speaks to the human spirit's ability to overcome.
Toni Morrison - Novelist, Essayist