Groundskeeping: A Read with Jenna Pick

A pleasant book that you begin to speed read as you progress in the main characters life and career evolution.

Lee Cole's "Groundskeeping" is a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the complexities of navigating life in a divided America. As I journeyed alongside Owen Callahan, I felt the weight of his struggles and aspirations resonate deeply, particularly against the backdrop of the 2016 election. The contrasts between Owen and Alma, both in their personal lives and backgrounds, create a rich tapestry that reveals the intricacies of class and belonging. Cole's lyrical prose captures the raw emotions of their budding romance, reflecting the difficulties of bridging their worlds while offering profound insights into familial ties and societal expectations. This debut novel not only tells a love story but also compels us to reflect on the divisions that exist within ourselves and our communities. It’s a beautifully crafted piece of literature that left me contemplating long after the last page. Highly recommended for those who appreciate nuanced storytelling!

This book expertly chronicles the complication of feeling alienated in the place of your birth when you realize it's hostile to your values and you don't know quite what to do about it because the only people you have strong bonds with are rooted there.

Timely, gut-wrenching, poignant, exactly what I wanted to and didn’t want to hear and feel and livethrough via Owen. 10/10

I found this book quite realistic to a generation of 20-somethings, but any reader could find a character that resonated with their own lives. A good read, great storytelling, but I am left feeling quite sad. I was rooting for the characters and need to know the rest of the story.