The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver follows Harrison William Shepherd, a man born in 1917 to a Mexican mother and an American father. His life journeys between Mexico and the U.S., intersecting with famous figures like Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Leon Trotsky while working as a plasterer and cook. Later, as a novelist in Asheville, NC, Harrison faces scrutiny from the House Un-American Activities Committee. Sensitive topics include assassination and political persecution.

Barbara Kingsolver's The Lacuna blends historical fiction with personal narrative, drawing praise for its rich storytelling and complex characters. The novel's backdrop of 20th-century political upheaval captivates readers, though some find its pacing uneven. Overall, it's celebrated for its depth, emotional resonance, and insightful exploration of identity and history.

Readers who appreciate historical fiction interwoven with social and political themes, such as those found in Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall or Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth, will likely enjoy Barbara Kingsolver's The Lacuna. Kingsolver's vivid storytelling and deep character development resemble the engaging narratives of Toni Morrison.

Contemplative / Melancholic / Mysterious / Bittersweet / Emotional

- The Lacuna was awarded the Orange Prize for Fiction in 2010, making Barbara Kingsolver the first American woman to win this prestigious British award since its inception.
- In writing The Lacuna, Kingsolver conducted extensive research in Mexican history, notably incorporating real historical figures like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera into the narrative.
- Kingsolver's inspiration for The Lacuna partly came from her interest in gaps and silences in historical records, as well as her own experience living in Mexico.

Barbara Kingsolver

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Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Lacuna and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Lacuna Summary

Background

The Lacuna Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Mexico, 1929-1931 (VB)”

Part 1 The Lacuna Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Washington, D.C. 1932-1934 (VB)”

Part 2 The Lacuna Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “San Angel and Coyoacán, 1935-1941 (VB)”

Part 3 The Lacuna Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Asheville, North Carolina, 1941-1947 (VB)”

Part 4 The Lacuna Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5 The Lacuna Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Parts 6-7

The Lacuna Parts 6-7 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Lacuna Character Analysis

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Themes

The Lacuna Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Lacuna Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Lacuna Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Lacuna Essay Topics

The Lacuna

Before You Read

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Who Should Read The Lacuna?

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Book Details