59 pages • 1 hour read
In the Wild Light
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Book Brief
425
Novel • Fiction
Tennessee • Contemporary
2021
Crown Books for Young Readers
YA
14-18 years
HL650L
Super Short Summary
In Jeff Zentner’s In the Wild Light, 17-year-old Cash Pruitt and his best friend, Delaney Doyle, leave their small East Tennessee town to attend a prestigious private school in Connecticut, where Cash grapples with fitting in while remaining true to his roots. He navigates his passion for poetry, new friendships, and romantic feelings amid familial obligations and personal losses. The book deals with substance use disorder and sexual assault.
Emotional
Melancholic
Inspirational
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
11,443 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jeff Zentner's In the Wild Light receives praise for its lyrical prose, deeply emotional narrative, and well-developed characters. The story of friendship and resilience captivates readers, although some find the pacing uneven and the plot occasionally predictable. Nonetheless, its heartfelt themes and evocative writing resonate strongly.
Who Should Read In the Wild Light?
In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner captures the hearts of those who admire tales of friendship, resilience, and personal growth. Readers who enjoyed The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky or Looking for Alaska by John Green will find themselves drawn to Zentner's poignant narrative and richly-drawn characters.
11,443 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Delaney Doyle
Delaney Doyle
Cash's closest friend, known for her scientific curiosity and emotional resilience despite her difficult family background. She supports Cash through his challenges and has a passion for finding cures in the natural world.
Phillip E. Pruitt (Papaw)
Phillip E. Pruitt (Papaw)
Cash's grandfather, who imparts wisdom about appreciating the world's complexities and values while battling his own hardships. He plays a significant role in guiding Cash's emotional and intellectual growth.
Dr. Britney Rae Atkins
Dr. Britney Rae Atkins
Cash's English professor, who inspires him with her unique style and commitment to poetry. She encourages Cash to explore and express his emotions through writing, offering support during his challenging times.
425
Novel • Fiction
Tennessee • Contemporary
2021
Crown Books for Young Readers
YA
14-18 years
HL650L
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