In the Wild Light
books by Jeff Zentner
Life in a small Appalachian town is not easy. Cash lost his mother to an opioid addiction and his Papaw is dying slowly from emphysema. Dodging drug dealers and watching out for his best friend, Delaney, is second nature. He’s been spending his summer mowing lawns while she works at Dairy Queen.But when Delaney manages to secure both of them full rides to an elite prep school in Connecticut, Cash will have to grapple with his need to protect and love Delaney, and his love for the grandparents who saved him and the town he would have to leave behind.From the award-winning author of The Serpent King comes a beautiful examination of grief, found family, and young love. Readers frequently mention how approachable the writing style feels, even when addressing serious or complex topics. The author avoids unnecessary jargon and instead focuses on clear, purposeful language. This makes the book suitable for readers from diverse backgrounds, regardless of their familiarity with the subject matter explored in the story. The author demonstrates restraint in storytelling, choosing clarity and intention over excessive embellishment. This focus results in a narrative that feels purposeful and well-crafted. This book provides a well-rounded reading experience by combining engaging storytelling with thoughtful exploration of ideas. Its balanced approach ensures that readers remain entertained while also finding meaning within the narrative.