Review of Buckeye: A Read with Jenna Pick: A Novel by Patrick Ryan
From the moment I stumbled upon Buckeye, I felt an undeniable pull. Perhaps it was the nostalgic call of a midwestern setting, or the promise of a sweeping, multi-generational saga. Having grown up just a stone’s throw from Ohio, the backdrop of Bonhomie was instantly familiar and inviting. Patrick Ryan’s latest novel, hailed as a “once-in-a-decade novel” by Jenna Bush Hager, intrigued me—it seemed like the kind of story that could resonate deeply, stoking the fires of memory and emotion.
As I delved into the pages, I found myself captivated by the intimate lives of two families: the Jenkins and the Salts. Their intertwined fates, set against the backdrop of mid-century America from WWII through the late 1980s, told tales of love, loss, and buried secrets. The initial kiss between Cal Jenkins and Margaret Salt—a stolen moment buoyed by the jubilation of victory—sets the stage for a series of emotional upheavals that ripple through generations. As their children grapple with the shadows of their parents’ choices, the narrative becomes a powerful exploration of identity and the complexities of familial ties.
Ryan’s writing is nothing short of breathtaking. His prose flows smoothly, interweaving humor with profound insights that made me laugh, cry, and reflect. One moment I was chuckling at a cheeky description of small-town life, and the next, I felt a weight in my chest as the characters faced the consequences of their decisions. Ryan’s vivid characters feel like old friends, complete with flaws and insecurities, which meant I couldn’t help but root for them. Cal’s wife, Becky, endowed with a spiritual gift, adds a touch of the ethereal—her abilities to connect with the deceased create a poignant reflection on grief and healing.
Notably, the themes of forgiveness and the consequences of long-buried secrets stand out, resonating on a deeply personal level. Jenna Bush Hager’s endorsement rings true as I found myself engrossed not just in the characters’ journeys but also in my own reflections on family and legacy. As Ann Patchett remarked, it’s indeed a “glorious sweep” of a narrative.
If I had to point out moments that truly struck a chord with me, it would be the conversations surrounding the human experience—how we navigate grief, joy, and everything in between. The way Ryan captures the essence of midwestern charm, complete with the beauty of buckeye trees and the warmth of community, is both relatable and comfortingly nostalgic.
In conclusion, Buckeye is more than just a tale of two families; it’s a tapestry of love, loss, and the enduring impact of secrets. Readers who cherish rich character-driven narratives will find themselves enchanted by this novel. It’s a book that lingers long after the last page is turned, and I can’t help but feel thankful for the experience it offered—one that rekindled my appreciation for both storytelling and the complexities of family ties. If you’re seeking a reflective read that beautifully captures the human spirit, look no further than Patrick Ryan’s Buckeye. You won’t be disappointed.
You can find Buckeye: A Read with Jenna Pick: A Novel here >>