In 1969, as Karl Wallenda prepares to tight-rope walk across the gorge in the tiny town of Tonola Falls, Georgia, faculty families at the McMullen Boarding School learn about racism, war, and what makes a hero.
Three daughters of a famed and eccentric puppeteer must confront their family divisions and tenuous relationships with their father and each other when, sinking into dementia, he announces there is a fourth daughter in this powerful story of family, ambition, and legacy.
Flawed characters navigate the complexities of small-town life in this eloquent and sorrowful novel. The narrative captures the essence of human relationships and the struggles within a close-knit community, appealing to fans of both Pat Conroy and Carson McCullers. Through rich storytelling, the book delves into themes of vulnerability and resilience, offering a poignant exploration of the intricacies of personal connections and the impact of place on identity.