57 pages 1 hour read

Kent Haruf

Plainsong

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1999

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Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Haruf's Plainsong garners acclaim for its evocative prose and poignant portrayal of small-town life. Critics praise its compelling characters and the intertwining of their lives, though some note the narrative's slow pace. While its simplicity is lauded, others find it lacks tension. Overall, it is celebrated for its emotional depth and authenticity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Plainsong?

A reader who enjoys deeply human, character-driven narratives would appreciate Kent Haruf's Plainsong. Fans of Marilynne Robinson's Gilead and Annie Proulx's The Shipping News will find its depiction of small-town life and intricate relationships particularly compelling. Haruf's spare, evocative prose appeals to those who value introspective and quietly powerful storytelling.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

770L

Book Details

Themes
Relationships: Mothers
Relationships: Family