February’s book club selection, “Horse” by Geraldine Brooks, offers readers a compelling journey through history, art, and humanity’s enduring bond with animals.
This pick is made even more exciting by the upcoming release of Brooks’s highly anticipated memoir, “Memorial Days”, debuting on February 4. With her unique ability to weave intricate narratives, Brooks invites us to explore both her fiction and personal reflections, making this the perfect time to delve into her extraordinary storytelling.
“Horse” is a sweeping historical novel that intertwines the lives of three characters across centuries, connected by a legendary racehorse named Lexington. The story shifts between 1850s Kentucky, where an enslaved boy named Jarret nurtures the horse into greatness; 1950s New York, where an art historian unravels the significance of a mysterious equine painting; and the present day, where a scientist and a journalist uncover forgotten stories of racial injustice and perseverance tied to Lexington. Brooks masterfully blends themes of race, art, science and history into an emotionally resonant tale about humanity’s enduring connection with animals and each other.
Geraldine Brooks is a Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for her richly researched historical novels that delve into complex themes of identity, morality and resilience. Born in Australia, Brooks began her career as a journalist before transitioning to fiction. Her celebrated works include “Year of Wonders”, “People of the Book” and “March”, which earned her the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2006. With “Horse”, Brooks continues her tradition of crafting deeply compelling narratives that bridge past and present, showcasing her unparalleled ability to illuminate history through storytelling.
Brooks’s storytelling brilliance shines in both her historical fiction and personal reflections, making this pairing a perfect opportunity to celebrate her work. You can find copies of “Horse” and preorder or purchase “Memorial Days” at Wild Geese Bookshop here in Franklin, or check out “Horse” at your local JCPL branch. Don’t miss this chance to explore these remarkable stories!
As a reader, you can participate in our Bound Together Book Club by simply reading the monthly book selection and following along on Franklin Magazine’s Facebook page. Each month we’ll post prompts asking for your reviews and ratings of the book. It’s a fun and interactive way to share your love of reading with the community, while also staying informed on exciting book releases and events hosted by Wild Geese Bookshop and Johnson County Public Library.
