Set in western Pennsylvania's bruised, mined, and timbered hills, "Sidle Creek"is a tender exploration of a small town and the people who live there, told by a brilliant new voice in fiction.
With short stories that take place in diners and dive bars, town halls and bait shops, author Jolene McIlwain skillfully explores the myths and stereotypes of the mining, mill, and farming towns where she grew up. She expertly weaves together the unexpected human connections of small, close-knit communities with the wild beauty of the natural world.
This story collection's taut prose, gorgeous imagery, and deep sensitivity for all of the living beings won it recognition as an NPR and Library Journal Best Book of the Year. Shelf Awareness called it “a rare gem, a compelling blend of nature and humanity perfect for fans of Barbara Kingsolver's 'Prodigal Summer' and Daisy Johnson's ‘Fen.'"