59 pages • 1 hour read
A Good Neighborhood
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
North Carolina • Contemporary
2020
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In A Good Neighborhood, the Whitman family moves into Oak Knoll, North Carolina, and their construction damages an old oak tree belonging to Valerie Alston-Holt and her son, Xavier. Tensions rise when Xavier and Juniper Whitman begin a secret relationship, while Valerie sues Brad Whitman over the tree. Misunderstandings, racism, and a false accusation against Xavier lead to tragic consequences. The book contains depictions of sexual assault, abuse, and suicide.
Contemplative
Emotional
Challenging
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
62,334 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Therese Anne Fowler's A Good Neighborhood is a captivating exploration of race, class, and love in a suburban setting. Many reviewers praise its timely social commentary and complex characters, though some feel the narrative occasionally lacks subtlety. Overall, it is a thought-provoking read that prompts important conversations.
Who Should Read A Good Neighborhood?
Fans of complex, character-driven dramas like Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng and The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold will relish A Good Neighborhood by Therese Anne Fowler. This poignant novel tackles themes of race, class, and the impact of environmental decisions within a suburban community.
62,334 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Juniper Whitman
Juniper Whitman
A 17-year-old girl who is intelligent and enjoys reading and nature, feeling out of place within her family and forming a significant bond with Xavier.
Valerie Alston-Holt
Valerie Alston-Holt
Xavier's compassionate and resilient mother, who is deeply invested in the environment and her son's wellbeing.
Brad Whitman
Brad Whitman
The charismatic and manipulative stepfather of Juniper, whose actions drive much of the conflict in the story.
Julia Whitman
Julia Whitman
Brad's wife, who navigates her role with gratitude and insecurity, eventually demonstrating strength in challenging situations.
Tom Alston-Holt
Tom Alston-Holt
An influential figure in Xavier's life, though deceased, remembered for his activism against racism.
Lily Whitman
Lily Whitman
A young, energetic, and talkative daughter of Brad and Julia, who occasionally highlights Brad's questionable behavior.
Pepper
Pepper
Juniper's outgoing and progressive best friend, who offers support and advice throughout the story.
336
Novel • Fiction
North Carolina • Contemporary
2020
Adult
18+ years
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