59 pages 1 hour read

Therese Anne Fowler

A Good Neighborhood

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In A Good Neighborhood, the Whitman family moves into Oak Knoll, North Carolina, and their construction damages an old oak tree belonging to Valerie Alston-Holt and her son, Xavier. Tensions rise when Xavier and Juniper Whitman begin a secret relationship, while Valerie sues Brad Whitman over the tree. Misunderstandings, racism, and a false accusation against Xavier lead to tragic consequences. The book contains depictions of sexual assault, abuse, and suicide.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Therese Anne Fowler's A Good Neighborhood is a captivating exploration of race, class, and love in a suburban setting. Many reviewers praise its timely social commentary and complex characters, though some feel the narrative occasionally lacks subtlety. Overall, it is a thought-provoking read that prompts important conversations.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Good Neighborhood?

Fans of complex, character-driven dramas like Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng and The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold will relish A Good Neighborhood by Therese Anne Fowler. This poignant novel tackles themes of race, class, and the impact of environmental decisions within a suburban community.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Modern Classic Fiction

Drama / Tragedy

Topics

Race / Racism

Class

Themes

Relationships: Family

Emotions/Behavior: Love

Society: Community