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365
Novel • Fiction
Virginia • 1940s
2000
Adult
14-18 years
840L
Wish You Well by David Baldacci follows 12-year-old Lou and her brother Oz, who, after a family tragedy, move from 1940s New York to rural Virginia to live with their great-grandmother. As they adapt to mountain life, they face challenges, forming deep connections that shape their understanding of family, belief, and the value of land. The story highlights themes of loss, resilience, and the transformative power of the written word.
Inspirational
Contemplative
Emotional
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
40,717 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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David Baldacci’s Wish You Well is praised for its evocative portrayal of rural Virginia, bringing the setting and era to life through vivid descriptions and strong character development. Some critics, however, find the narrative pacing uneven and feel that certain moments are overly sentimental. Overall, it is a heartfelt and engaging novel that resonates emotionally with readers.
Wish You Well by David Baldacci would captivate readers who appreciate heartfelt, historical dramas set in rural America. Fans of John Grisham's A Painted House or Kathryn Stockett's The Help will find its rich character development and evocative settings particularly engaging. This novel is ideal for those who enjoy poignant, family-oriented stories with strong emotional cores.
40,717 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Oz Cardinal
Lou's imaginative and easily frightened 7-year-old brother, who believes in magic and looks up to his sister while learning to navigate challenges on his own.
Louisa Mae Cardinal
The strong-willed and charitable paternal grandmother of Lou and Oz, who helps raise them and encourages a love for the mountains and hard work.
Jack Cardinal
Lou and Oz's father, a critically acclaimed writer who returned to the mountains with his family before his untimely death.
Amanda Cardinal
Lou and Oz's mother, who experiences a catatonic state after a family tragedy and becomes a symbol of hope for her daughter, Lou.
Cotton Longfellow
A country lawyer and good friend to Louisa, who takes an interest in helping Lou and Oz and supports the family during challenging times.
Eugene “Hell No” Randall
A loyal and nurturing man whom Louisa raised, who contributes to the family's well-being and survival on the farm.
Diamond (Jimmy Skinner)
A talkative mountain boy and friend of Lou and Oz, who shares stories about magic and is welcomed into the family circle by Louisa.
George Davis
Louisa's ill-tempered neighbor, a prosperous landowner with a selfish and destructive nature, who creates tension in the community.
Billy Davis
George's eldest son, who initially causes trouble for Lou and Oz but comes to appreciate the kindness shown to his siblings.
365
Novel • Fiction
Virginia • 1940s
2000
Adult
14-18 years
840L
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