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Jayber Crow Wendell Berry's latest novel is another story from the fictional town of Port William. This time around it's the life story of Jaber Crow. Told in his own words, it follows his thoughts, feelings, and recollections from childhood to old age. In that time he experiences the transitions of the 20th century as felt in a small town in Kentucky. He watches as farmers become distanced from the land they work; he watches the small town community be replaced by malls and retail chains; he witnesses the advent of the freeway--something most of us take completely for granted. This reflects Berry's conservationism and is a convincing--if heavy handed--argument for the cause. Even more intriguing is Jayber's spiritual and philosophical contemplations. For a time he attends seminary, but then he chases his doubts down a different path. It's an honest struggle with faith that encourages reflection and examination rather than all-out doubt. A number of times Jayber says something poignant and brilliant enough to warrant underlining, even if it was the library's copy: "Not all of the hymns could move me. I never liked 'Onward Christian Soliders' or 'The Battle Hymn of the Republic.' Jesus' military career has never compelled my belief." It's a relatively slow-moving novel told in the familiar, grandfather voice of Jayber. I was introduced to the book at a reading when Berry himself read a chapter or two. His aging, tender voice set the tone perfectly. Jayber Crow seems out of place compared with the best-sellers of today, which makes it so refreshing. |
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