52 pages • 1 hour read
Child of God
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Book Brief
197
Novel • Fiction
Tennessee • 1950s
1973
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Child of God, set in 1960s Sevier County, Tennessee, 27-year-old Lester Ballard is violently dispossessed of his family farm and gradually becomes more isolated and morally corrupt. As he squats in a dilapidated cabin and later a cave, he begins engaging in increasingly violent behaviors, including spying on couples and committing murders. Despite his temporary arrests and societal rejections, Lester's actions spiral out of control, exploring themes such as the inherent violence in humanity, societal breakdown, and the nature of free will. The book references murder, death by suicide, rape, and necrophilia.
Dark
Unnerving
Gritty
Mysterious
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
51,651 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Cormac McCarthy's Child of God skillfully explores the descent of a disenfranchised man into depravity within a Southern Gothic framework. While some critics praise its stark prose and thematic depth, others find the narrative disturbing and uncomfortable. The novel's portrayal of isolation and societal rejection is compelling yet divisive in its execution.
Who Should Read Child of God?
A reader who would enjoy Child of God by Cormac McCarthy likely favors dark, psychological narratives with complex characters. This novel will resonate with fans of William Faulkner’s As I Lay Dying and Toni Morrison’s Beloved, who appreciate deep explorations of the human condition and haunting, gothic atmospheres.
51,651 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sheriff Fate Turner
Sheriff Fate Turner
The authoritative law enforcement officer in Sevier County who wields significant power and influence. His actions and decisions impact Lester's fate and highlight themes of justice and bias.
John Greer
John Greer
The man who purchases Lester's family farm at auction, facing local suspicion as an outsider from another Tennessee county. His presence and role in the community stir feelings of resentment in Lester.
Reubel the Dump Keeper
Reubel the Dump Keeper
A gruff and talkative man who highlights the darker aspects of the community. He has a complex and disturbing relationship with his daughters, offering a sharp contrast to Lester in terms of power dynamics.
197
Novel • Fiction
Tennessee • 1950s
1973
Adult
18+ years
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