4.21
"The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon" by Tom Spanbauer is a powerful and poignant novel that explores the life of a young boy, Duivichiha, growing up in rural Idaho in the early 20th century. The novel is a coming-of-age story that delves into the complexities of identity, sexuality, and the human desire for connection. Duivichiha, also known as Shed, is a unique and captivating protagonist. He is born into a family of white settlers, but his Native American heritage sets him apart from those around him. Shed is often ostracized and bullied, and he turns to the moon for comfort and companionship. The moon becomes a symbol of Shed's longing for love and acceptance, and his relationship with it is one of the most compelling aspects of the novel. Spanbauer's writing style is lyrical and evocative, and he masterfully captures the beauty and harshness of the Idaho landscape. The novel is set against the backdrop of historical events, including the World Wars and the Great Depression, and these events serve to highlight the challenges and struggles that Shed faces in his own life. One of the most notable aspects of "The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon" is its exploration of sexuality. Shed is gay, and his experiences with love and desire are portrayed with sensitivity and nuance. The novel challenges traditional notions of sexuality and gender, and it encourages readers to consider the complexities of identity and the human experience. Overall, "The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon" is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel. It is a powerful exploration of identity, sexuality, and the human desire for connection, and it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. This novel is highly recommended for readers who enjoy literary fiction and are interested in exploring themes of identity, sexuality, and the human experience.
Richard Brautigan
The Hawkline Monster: A Gothic Western
If you enjoyed the magical realism and unconventional storytelling in 'The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon', you might appreciate Richard Brautigan's 'The Hawkline Monster: A Gothic Western'. This novel combines elements of horror, western, and mystery genres, creating a unique and captivating narrative. The story revolves around two hired gunmen who embark on a peculiar journey to eliminate a monstrous creature in the basement of a wealthy widow's mansion. Brautigan's writing style is reminiscent of Tom Spanbauer's, blending humor, oddity, and a touch of the supernatural.
Learn MoreKeri Hulme
The Bone People
If you appreciated the raw emotion and exploration of identity in 'The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon', Keri Hulme's 'The Bone People' is a must-read. This Booker Prize-winning novel delves into the lives of three damaged individuals living in New Zealand, weaving a powerful and haunting story of love, pain, and redemption. Hulme's writing style is rich and evocative, with a strong emphasis on character development and emotional depth.
Learn MoreIsabel Allende
The House of the Spirits
If you were drawn to the magical realism and multi-generational saga in 'The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon', Isabel Allende's 'The House of the Spirits' is an excellent choice. This novel follows the Trueba family through several generations, from the patriarch's courtship of a mysterious young woman with magical powers to the political turmoil of Chile. Allende's writing is vivid and imaginative, filled with unforgettable characters and a richly detailed setting.
Learn MoreBarbara Kingsolver
The Poisonwood Bible
If you appreciated the vivid setting and complex characters in 'The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon', Barbara Kingsolver's 'The Poisonwood Bible' is a captivating read. This novel tells the story of a evangelical Baptist family from Georgia who move to the Belgian Congo in 1959, exploring the cultural clashes, political upheaval, and personal transformations that ensue. Kingsolver's writing is rich and immersive, with unforgettable characters and a powerful sense of place.
Learn MoreAudrey Niffenegger
The Time Traveler's Wife
For readers who enjoyed the imaginative and emotional depth of 'The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon', Audrey Niffenegger's 'The Time Traveler's Wife' is a mesmerizing read. This novel tells the story of a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to time travel unpredictably, and his wife, who must navigate the challenges and heartaches of their unconventional relationship. Niffenegger's writing is lyrical and poignant, exploring themes of love, fate, and the human condition.
Learn MoreAlice Walker
The Color Purple
If you were moved by the exploration of identity, resilience, and the human spirit in 'The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon', Alice Walker's 'The Color Purple' is a powerful read. This novel tells the story of Celie, a young African American woman living in the rural South during the early 20th century, and her journey towards self-discovery, empowerment, and love. Walker's writing is raw and emotional, capturing the essence of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Learn MoreSue Monk Kidd
The Secret Life of Bees
For readers who enjoyed the richly drawn characters and themes of love, identity, and community in 'The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon', Sue Monk Kidd's 'The Secret Life of Bees' is a beautiful choice. This novel tells the story of Lily, a 14-year-old girl who runs away from her abusive father and finds solace in the home of three beekeeping sisters in South Carolina. Kidd's writing is lyrical and evocative, exploring themes of race, gender, and the transformative power of love and friendship.
Learn MoreKhaled Hosseini
The Kite Runner
If you were captivated by the emotional depth and exploration of identity in 'The Man Who Fell in Love with the Moon', Khaled Hosseini's 'The Kite Runner' is a must-read. This novel tells the story of Amir, a young Afghan man who must confront his past and make amends for a childhood betrayal that has haunted him for decades. Hosseini's writing is powerful and evocative, capturing the essence of love, loyalty, and redemption in the face of adversity.
Learn More