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44 pages 1 hour read

Storming Heaven

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1987

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Book Brief

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Denise Giardina

Storming Heaven

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1987
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

West Virginia • Early 20th century

Theme
Publication Year

1987

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Storming Heaven by Denise Giardina is a historical novel set in West Virginia during the late 1800s and early 1900s, focusing on the forced displacement of farming families by coal companies, the dangerous working conditions of coal miners, and their attempts to unionize, which culminates in a massive strike and the Battle of Blair Mountain, as recounted by the four main characters: C. J. Marcum, Rondal Lloyd, Carrie Bishop, and Rosa Angelelli. The book depicts violence, labor struggles, and personal and communal tragedies.

Gritty

Challenging

Inspirational

Emotional

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Storming Heaven by Denise Giardina has been praised for its evocative portrayal of the coal miners' struggles in early 20th-century West Virginia. Reviewers commend Giardina’s rich characterization and historical accuracy, though some critics note a slow narrative pace. Despite this, the novel’s emotional depth and social commentary make it a compelling read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Storming Heaven?

Fans of gritty historical novels like The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck and Germinal by Émile Zola will be captivated by Denise Giardina’s Storming Heaven. This reader appreciates richly detailed narratives centered around social justice, labor struggles, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Character List

Rondal Lloyd

The son of a coal miner who originally leaves school to work in the mines but becomes deeply involved in union organization, facing significant risks for his involvement.

A romantic and resilient woman who grows up in Kentucky, becomes a nurse, and is a strong supporter of the miners' union due to her exposure to poor working conditions.

Initially working at a drugstore, he becomes involved in local politics and union organization, deeply caring for Rondal and collaborating on a socialist newspaper.

An immigrant from Sicily who endures personal tragedy, working in West Virginia and maintaining her Catholic faith amidst her hardships.

A black doctor known for overcoming racial discrimination to treat miners, he is influential in socialist circles and has a professional connection with Carrie.

A pastor with unconventional views who values dance and wine, he marries Carrie and is involved in the coal miners' union efforts.

Carrie's older brother, who becomes a coal mine superintendent and frequently clashes with Carrie over the union strike, siding with business interests.

A wealthy land and business owner in West Virginia, he retains control over his property despite coal company pressures and has influence with local officials.

The son of Ermel Justice and Rondal’s best friend, he is known for frequenting gambling halls and brothels, eventually marrying into C. J.’s family.

Rondal's younger brother, who works in the coal mines and serves in the army, displaying toughness and a willingness to confront authority figures.

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

West Virginia • Early 20th century

Theme
Publication Year

1987

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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