A TODAY Show Read with Jenna Book Club Pick“[T]ransporting . . . a rollicking cross-country adventure, rife with unforgettable characters, vivid scenery and suspense that will keep readers flying through the pages.” —TIME“An absolute beauty of a book. Every character is a gem, the many locations spring to vivid life, the book is an intricate and moving exploration of journeys and the infinite unexpected turns they can take—and somehow Towles makes it all seem effortless. As soon as I finished it, I wanted to read it again.” —Tana French, bestselling author of The Searcher The bestselling author of A Gentleman in Moscow and Rules of Civility and master of absorbing, sophisticated fiction returns with a stylish and propulsive novel set in 1950s AmericaIn June, 1954, eighteen-year-old Emmett Watson is driven home to Nebraska by the warden of the juvenile work farm where he has just served fifteen months for involuntary manslaughter. His mother long gone, his father recently deceased, and the family farm foreclosed upon by the bank, Emmett's intention is to pick up his eight-year-old brother, Billy, and head to California where they can start their lives anew. But when the warden drives away, Emmett discovers that two friends from the work farm have hidden themselves in the trunk of the warden's car. Together, they have hatched an altogether different plan for Emmett's future, one that will take them all on a fateful journey in the opposite direction—to the City of New York. Spanning just ten days and told from multiple points of view, Towles's third novel will satisfy fans of his multi-layered literary styling while providing them an array of new and richly imagined settings, characters, and themes.
In Amor Towles' captivating novel, "The Lincoln Highway: A Novel," readers embark on an unforgettable journey alongside Emmett Watson, a young man recently released from a juvenile work farm, and his eight-year-old brother, Billy. Together, they traverse the country along the legendary Lincoln Highway, encountering a colorful cast of characters and facing unforeseen challenges that test their resilience and unbreakable bond.
As Emmett and Billy traverse the vast American landscape, they cross paths with a diverse array of individuals, each with their own unique story to tell. There's Duchess, a charismatic hitchhiker with a mysterious past, and Woolly, a troubled soul seeking redemption. Along the way, they encounter truckers, diner cooks, and fellow travelers, all of whom leave an indelible mark on their journey.
Towles' evocative prose brings the era to life, capturing the beauty of the American landscape and the complexities of a nation on the cusp of change. Through Emmett and Billy's eyes, readers witness the transformation of a country grappling with the aftermath of the Great Depression and the looming threat of World War II.
"The Lincoln Highway" is a poignant exploration of family, friendship, and the indomitable spirit of hope. Towles deftly weaves together the individual narratives of his characters, creating a rich tapestry of human experience. With its unforgettable characters, lyrical prose, and profound insights into the human condition, "The Lincoln Highway" is a literary masterpiece that will resonate with readers long after they finish the final page.
