Daniel Mason's latest novel, Country People, is a delightful follow-up to his acclaimed North Woods. While North Woods delved into the history of a house and its inhabitants over three centuries, Country People takes a different approach by exploring the world of literature and the stories that shape our lives. This novel is a testament to the power of storytelling and the endless possibilities it offers.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Country People is its focus on the linear account of a contemporary family's year in Vermont. On the surface, it may seem like a step back from the grand scope of North Woods, but Mason masterfully reveals the depth beneath the surface. The characters' compulsive need to dig deeper, both literally and metaphorically, drives the narrative forward. Miles Krzelewski, the uxorious husband and father, finds himself drawn to the countryside, much like a modern-day Walt Whitman. This is where Mason's genius lies - he effortlessly balances the fantastical with the mundane, creating a rich tapestry of stories.
What makes Country People truly special is its ability to capture the essence of Vermont and its eccentric inhabitants. The author paints a vivid picture of the state's beauty, from the brooks and conifers to the baseball fields and lemonade stands. The characters, too, are a delightful bunch, each with their own unique enthusiasm. From the Rat Man of Vermont to the biochemist turned orchardist, they add a layer of whimsy and charm to the novel. But it's Miles' journey that truly captivates the reader.
Miles' struggle to finish his PhD on Russian folktales serves as a metaphor for the human condition. We are all prone to switching focus and getting lost in the rabbit holes of life. Mason's exploration of this theme is both relatable and thought-provoking. It makes you wonder about the stories we tell ourselves and the stories we pass on to our children. The novel's epigraphs, taken from Milton, Shakespeare, and Tolstoy, further emphasize the importance of storytelling and the power of literature.
However, what many people might not realize is that Country People is not just a simple tale of a family's year in Vermont. It is a deeper exploration of the human psyche and the stories we create to make sense of the world. Mason's use of literature as a foundation for his novel is a brilliant move, allowing him to delve into the esoteric and the mundane, the fantastical and the real. It is a reminder that stories are not just entertainment, but a way to understand ourselves and the world around us.
In my opinion, Country People is a masterpiece of storytelling. Mason's ability to weave together the fantastical and the real is a testament to his skill as a writer. The novel is a joyful celebration of literature and the power of stories. As you read, you'll find yourself digging deeper, both literally and metaphorically, just like the characters. And the more you dig, the more joyful the experience becomes. So, if you're looking for a novel that will transport you to a magical world, while also making you think about the stories we tell, then Country People is the perfect choice. It is a book that will leave you wanting more, and that, in my opinion, is the highest praise.
