53 pages • 1 hour read
Back Roads
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Book Brief
343
Novel • Fiction
Western Pennsylvania • 1990s
1999
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Back Roads by Tawni O'Dell explores the life of Harley Altmyer, a 19-year-old who becomes the caregiver for his three younger sisters after their mother is imprisoned for killing their abusive father. Struggling with the demands of daily life, Harley uncovers painful truths about his family's past, forcing him to confront deeply buried realities.
Dark
Gritty
Melancholic
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
27,661 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Tawni O'Dell's Back Roads receives acclaim for its gripping narrative and rich, authentic characters, particularly the protagonist Harley's intense emotional struggles. Critics highlight O'Dell's vivid depiction of small-town life and complex family dynamics. Some note that the relentless bleakness can be overwhelming, but the novel’s raw, unflinching honesty holds commendable literary merit.
Who Should Read Back Roads?
Fans of gripping and emotionally charged dramas like The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold and The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd will find themselves enthralled by Tawni O'Dell's Back Roads. This reader appreciates complex characters, raw family dynamics, and the dark undercurrents of small-town life.
27,661 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Amber Altmyer
Amber Altmyer
The 16-year-old sister of Harley, demonstrates rebellious behavior and has a complex relationship with her brother as they navigate their difficult family circumstances.
Misty Altmyer
Misty Altmyer
The 12-year-old sibling shows independence and emotional detachment, presenting maturity beyond her years and a complicated dynamic within the family.
Callie Mercer
Callie Mercer
A bored stay-at-home mom dissatisfied with her life, she becomes romantically involved with Harley, affecting their lives amid other personal struggles.
Bonnie Altmyer
Bonnie Altmyer
The mother of Harley and his sisters, she is in prison for a crime that affects her children's lives dramatically and influences Harley's role in the family.
343
Novel • Fiction
Western Pennsylvania • 1990s
1999
Adult
18+ years
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