The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver
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Set in Mexico and the U.S. from 1929-1951, Kingsolver tells the story of Harrison Shepherd, a young boy on the verge of adolescence, interacting with some of the largest political players in history. Born to an American father that knows nothing of him, and a Mexican mother that is always looking for her next companion, Harrison is on his own navigating through life. By chance, Harrison begins working for Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, first as a paint mixer, then cook, and finally a secretary. The story is told through Harrison’s diaries he keeps along the way, and actual news stories that were printed throughout the world as historical events occurred.
I love The Lacuna because of the great mix Kingsolver creates between reality and fiction. Weaving the story of Lev Trotsky, Stalin and the U.S. reaction to communism and the Iron Wall with the story of Harrison’s coming of age as an author himself. One of the things that really ticked me off was wanting to read the novels Harrison wrote throughout the story! Especially having spent a lot of time in Mexico last summer visiting many of the historical sites Harrison wrote his stories around like Chichen Itza, the underground cenotes, and Mayan villages.
While Kingsolver was writing about political upheaval that happened over 60 years ago, several lines struck me about our current state of affairs.
“But people desire fair government. You say that constantly.”
“They want to believe in heroes, also. And villains. Especially when very frightened. It’s less taxing than the truth.”
So true. One of the many reasons I can’t stand watching the news anymore.
Final thought: Pick it up!
Novel Whore Rating: 5 Notches on the Bed Post
Wine Pairing: Las Rocas de San Alejandro Garnacha 2007
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