Ms Kingsolver has been a favorite of mine for years so I was thrilled to see her new novel. It stands on its own merit but is also interesting as a remake of Dicken’s David Copperfield. The narrator is a young boy who struggles with very difficult circumstances. The novel illustrates how weak our social system is in regard to the needs of children who are poor and vulnerable.

Where we are born and to whom determines so much. A lot of no-so-pretty life, obstacles, choices, chances and the vast difference between individuals. A true life story for many.

Yes, it will be described as dark, depressing or heartbreaking but following this boys life is, also, addictive and true to life. I have recommended this book to many friends & have heard nothing but “Oh my gosh….from them all!”

Too long

Reading upon library checkout.

Beautiful writing

Catcher and the Rye can retire. Holden Caufield can leave the building. However you want to say it, Demon Copperhead is the new coming of age novel GOAT. While he was once very loved by his biological mother, this is not enough to prepare for or shield Demon from the horrific experiences awaiting him over and over. And his wit and self effacing humor, by God, keep us rooting for him and scared for him like he is our own family member. I wanted to reach inside the book and hug him every few pages. Write myself into the story arc so he could have a good few months.. after I managed to unite all the decent people he kept loosely in his orbit. I’ve loved nearly all of Barbara Kingsolver’s books—especially her essays— and I recommend highly reading “Dopesick” and this deservedly Pulitzer Prize winning gorgeous novel together. For deeper context and to remind yourself this is a real, true horror story. No supernatural scary clowns in the sewer drain villains, but a heartlessly devious and highly organized pharmaceutical company, aggressive sales and marketing teams and desperate addicts with nothing to lose. It was horrifying and beautiful. Excruciating and triumphant.

This was such a unique book!! The story/life of the main character is incredibly sad but has a great trunaround. The book is phenomenally written and you feel like you're reading someone's journal account. Bittersweet story but a great telling.

Easy to care for the main character. Confirms my belief that some people’s life is just not fair.