The Sweetness of Water by

The Sweetness of Water is a powerful debut novel that explores the complexities of freedom, love, and community in the wake of the Civil War. Set in Georgia during the tumultuous period of Reconstruction, the story follows Prentiss and Landry, two brothers who seek refuge on the farm of George and Isabelle Walker. The Walkers, grieving the loss of their son, find solace in the brothers' presence, leading to an unlikely friendship that transcends the boundaries of race and loss. Parallel to their story, a forbidden romance between two Confederate soldiers adds layers of tension and turmoil to the narrative. The novel is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, depicting the struggles and triumphs of newly freed citizens in a world on the brink of change. Nathan Harris's novel is a masterful blend of historical fiction and literary depth, earning numerous accolades and praise from prominent figures like President Obama. With its richly drawn characters and evocative prose, The Sweetness of Water offers a poignant exploration of healing, redemption, and the enduring power of community. The book's exploration of themes such as grief, love, and the search for belonging makes it a compelling read that resonates long after the final page.

Reviews

Deedi Reads · 2025-06-20

engaging 4.00

The book is easy to sink into and has a compelling story, though it might not deserve its Booker longlist nomination. The writing is engaging and draws the reader in quickly.

The reviewer found The Sweetness of Water to be a compelling and easy read, praising its ability to draw them in quickly. They enjoyed the story and the way it unfolds, but they are not entirely convinced it deserves its Booker longlist nomination. The writing is strong, and the plot is engaging, making it a enjoyable read overall. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the intricate details that bring the story to life.

Quick quotes

I found The Sweetness of Water to be easy to sink into, a compelling story.

I'm not sure I would have put it on the Booker longlist, myself, but it's definitely a book worth reading.

The writing is engaging and draws the reader in quickly.

Voice Mag · 2021-08-22

heartbreaking 4.25

The book is heartbreaking but also full of promise, highlighting the indomitable spirit of love. It is a powerful and emotional journey that leaves a lasting impact.

The reviewer describes The Sweetness of Water as a heartbreaking yet promising novel that highlights the indomitable spirit of love. They find the story to be powerful and emotional, with a depth that touches the reader deeply. The reviewer appreciates the way the author portrays the struggles and triumphs of the characters, making it a moving and impactful read. The novel's exploration of love and resilience is particularly noteworthy, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Quick quotes

The Sweetness of Water is heartbreaking, but it is also full of promise, as Harris highlights the indomitable spirit of love.

It is a powerful and emotional journey that leaves a lasting impact.

The novel's exploration of love and resilience is particularly noteworthy.

NPR · 2021-08-04

thought-provoking 4.50

The novel leaves a lasting impression with its warm and absorbing narrative, thought-provoking themes, and humane approach. It is a multifaceted story that stays with the reader long after finishing.

The reviewer highlights how The Sweetness of Water leaves a lasting and multifaceted impression. They appreciate the warmth and absorbing nature of the narrative, which makes it a compelling read. The story is thought-provoking and humane, tackling complex themes with sensitivity. The reviewer finds the novel to be a standout, with a depth that lingers in the mind long after the last page is turned. The characters and their journeys are portrayed in a way that resonates deeply, making it a memorable and impactful read.

Quick quotes

The Sweetness of Water left a lasting and multifaceted impression: It's warm and absorbing, thought provoking and humane.

It's a novel that stays with you long after you've finished reading.

The characters and their journeys are portrayed in a way that resonates deeply.

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