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A Thousand Acres

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991

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Book Brief

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Jane Smiley

A Thousand Acres

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991
Book Details
Pages

371

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Iowa • 1970s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

HL930L

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Super Short Summary

A Thousand Acres by Jane Smiley is a contemporary retelling of Shakespeare's King Lear set on an Iowa farm in the 1970s. Wealthy farmer Larry Cook decides to incorporate his farm and give joint ownership to his daughters, Ginny, Rose, and Caroline. When Caroline hesitates, Larry removes her from the will, leading to tragic events. Ginny, the eldest, narrates the story, offering a deep dive into complex family dynamics, themes of power, gender roles, and appearance versus reality. The novel includes topics like child abuse, sexual abuse, and mental health conditions.

Dark

Contemplative

Melancholic

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

3.9

72,528 ratings

67%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jane Smiley's A Thousand Acres is broadly acclaimed for its vivid portrayal of a midwestern farming family's psychological complexity, nodding to Shakespeare's King Lear. Many reviewers praise its rich character development and compelling narrative. Some criticism centers on its bleak tone and slow pace, but overall, the novel's emotional depth and thematic richness are highly regarded.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Thousand Acres?

Readers who enjoy A Thousand Acres by Jane Smiley typically appreciate modern retellings of classic literature, intricate family dynamics, and explorations of rural American life. Fans of William Faulkner's As I Lay Dying or John Steinbeck's East of Eden will find similar themes of generational conflict and moral complexity.

3.9

72,528 ratings

67%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Ginny Cook Smith

The protagonist and narrator, Ginny is the eldest Cook daughter, married to Ty Smith, and involved with farm life. Despite experiencing multiple pregnancy losses, she maintains a maternal role toward her nieces and struggles with personal and familial challenges.

Ginny's sister, known for her strong-willed nature and critical outlook toward family members. She is a mother of two daughters and has her own plans for the family farm.

The father of Ginny and Rose, a prominent and respected farmer whose mental health and relationships change significantly over the story. He plays a pivotal role in the family dynamics and inheritance of the farm.

The youngest Cook daughter, pursuing a career as a lawyer and somewhat distanced from the farm. Her relationship with her family is complex and colored by her outsider status.

Ginny's husband, a dedicated farmer handling the farm's hog operation. He often acts as a stabilizing presence in the family amidst growing tensions.

Rose's husband, characterized by his hot-headed and sometimes volatile demeanor. His ambitions and actions often contribute to familial strife.

A charismatic outsider returning to the farm community, Jess captivates several characters with his ideas and charm. His presence significantly influences the Cook family dynamics.

Larry's neighbor and friend, Harold is competitive and often entangled in farm-related disputes. He faces personal challenges that alter his role in the story.

The local banker, involved in advising the Cooks and other community members on financial decisions. Known for his quirky personality and love of gossip.

Book Details
Pages

371

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Iowa • 1970s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

HL930L

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