The Lincoln Highway
books by Amor Towles
A master of absorbing, sophisticated fiction returns with a stylish and propulsive novel set in 1950s AmericaIn June 1954, eighteen-year-old Emmett Watson is driven home to Nebraska by the warden of the juvenile work farm where he has just served fifteen months for involuntary manslaughter. His mother long gone, his father recently deceased, and the family farm foreclosed upon by the bank, Emmett’s intention is to pick up his eight-year-old brother, Billy, and head to California, where they can start their lives anew. But when the warden drives away, Emmett discovers that two friends from the work farm have hidden themselves in the trunk of the warden’s car. Together, they have hatched an altogether different plan for Emmett’s future, one that will take them all on a fateful journey in the opposite direction—to the city of New York.Spanning just ten days and told from multiple points of view, Towles’s third novel will satisfy fans of his multilayered literary styling while providing them an array of new and richly imagined settings, characters, and themes. The book’s consistent tone helps establish trust between the author and the reader. Knowing what to expect stylistically allows readers to settle into the story more comfortably. This sense of stability enhances immersion and enjoyment. The pacing of the book reflects a careful consideration of reader engagement. Moments of intensity are balanced with quieter scenes that provide context and reflection. This rhythm keeps the story dynamic without becoming overwhelming. The author’s approach to storytelling highlights the importance of context and buildup. Key moments feel impactful because they are supported by prior development rather than sudden shifts.