Hang the Moon
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
•
Coming of Age•
Life-Inspired FictionVirginia • 1920s
•
Coming of Age•
Social Class•
World History2023
Scribner
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Hang the Moon by Jeannette Walls is a historical novel set in Virginia during Prohibition, following Sallie Kincaid, who, after being banished for an accident involving her half-brother, returns to claim her place in the family. The story explores themes of memory, family dysfunction, commitment fears, and loneliness amid complex family dynamics and the challenges of bootlegging. The novel features depictions of physical assault, domestic abuse, suicide, murder, and racism.
Mysterious
Emotional
Gritty
Challenging
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
104,548 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jeannette Walls' Hang the Moon offers an engaging narrative with well-developed characters and evocative writing. Readers and critics alike commend its richly layered storytelling and historical context. However, some feel the pacing lags in parts, and certain plot points lack depth. Overall, it's a compelling read that balances historical background with personal drama effectively.
Who Should Read Hang the Moon?
Readers who enjoy Hang the Moon by Jeannette Walls typically appreciate character-driven historical fiction with a strong female protagonist, akin to those found in The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and The Color Purple by Alice Walker. These readers value rich storytelling and nuanced explorations of resilience and family dynamics.
104,548 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The authoritative patriarch of the Kincaid family, he is a complex businessman who maintains a respectable facade while engaging in the moonshine trade.
Sallie’s younger half-brother, whose fragile health and introverted nature contrast with his sharp intellect and diverse interests in music, arts, and sciences.
Sallie's maternal aunt who raises her and is a resourceful and compassionate figure working as a seamstress and hair stylist, despite facing societal judgment.
A loyal confidant to the Kincaid family whose relationship with Sallie evolves as he returns home changed from his wartime experiences.
368
Novel • Fiction
•
Coming of Age•
Life-Inspired FictionVirginia • 1920s
•
Coming of Age•
Social Class•
World History2023
Scribner
Adult
18+ years
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