One of practically everyone's top ten books of Appalachian fiction. I actually think it is more of a story collection - using the same characters and setting - than a novel, but it IS delightful. When I'm asked to present on regional literature, I often choose this book as one of a handful I read from. I remember when I first read it. More than any other book I have read, I would find myself laughing out loud as I read. My late wife thought I was losing it! Fred Chappell is essentially an icon in the field of Appalachian literature. No other regional author received so many national and international awards so early. Poetry, stories, novels, you name it. AND, check it out - so many of the next generation of regional writers received their MFA from Chappell's UNC-G program! Chappell grew up in Canton, North Carolina, reminiscent of the fictional setting for this book. PLUS it has one of the all-time best covers of any book in our field! Enough said!
Baton Rouge: Louisiana State University Press, a 1987 paperback reprint of a 1985 release. 184 pages. Trade paperback.