The Midwife's Tale by Gretchen Moran Laskas

'Over the past two decades Silas House has established himself as one of the central voices explaining, lamenting, and celebrating not only his native Appalachia, but America itself. The collection begins with a foreword by Denise Giardina and concludes with a chapter by celebrated poet Maurice Manning exploring the lyricism that distinguishes House's work.įeaturing an interview with House that further illuminates his philosophy and art, this timely volume offers an important critical appraisal of his oeuvre to date and illustrates why he is one of the most significant voices in Appalachian and American literature today. Various chapters address different aspects of House's fiction and nonfiction, including the ways in which he deconstructs regional stereotypes, how he explores issues of diversity, his environmental activism, and his approach to LGBTQ issues.

In this groundbreaking book, editor and coauthor Sylvia Bailey Shurbutt brings together established and rising scholars to discuss House and his writings through a critical lens. Well known for its lyrical style, diverse and sympathetic characters, and political engagement, House's work is overdue for deeper critical study. His acclaimed and diverse body of work includes the novels Clay's Quilt, A Parchment of Leaves, The Coal Tattoo, Eli the Good, and Southernmost.

Bestselling author, journalist, playwright, and activist Silas House has focused nearly all of his work on Appalachia.

The Midwife's Tale by Gretchen Moran Laskas