Download Buckeye: A Read with Jenna Pick book pdf

Download Buckeye A Read with Jenna Pick book PDF Free by Patrick Ryan

Dive into the rich tapestry of small-town life and profound family secrets with 'Buckeye A Read with Jenna Pick' by acclaimed author Patrick Ryan. This sweeping multigenerational novel, selected as a highly anticipated Read with Jenna pick, intricately weaves the lives of two Midwestern families, the Jenkins and the Salts, across decades of American history. It's a powerful exploration of how a single, hidden moment can ripple through generations, shaping destinies and revealing the enduring human quest for love, forgiveness, and self-truth.

Set in the fictional Ohio town of Bonhomie, 'Buckeye' transports readers from the aftermath of World War II through the tumultuous era of the Vietnam War, offering an intimate yet epic portrait of ordinary people grappling with extraordinary circumstances. This captivating historical fiction is a masterclass in character development and storytelling, promising a deeply emotional and thought-provoking reading experience that will linger long after the final page.

About the Author Patrick Ryan

Patrick Ryan, the brilliant mind behind 'Buckeye A Read with Jenna Pick,' is an accomplished author with a distinguished career in literature. Born in Washington, D.C., and having lived across various states including Florida, Ohio, and Virginia before settling in New York, Ryan brings a diverse perspective to his writing. A graduate of Florida State University and Bowling Green State University, he has honed his craft over many years, culminating in this "once-in-a-decade epic" novel.

Before the widespread acclaim for 'Buckeye,' which is his debut adult novel and a New York Times bestseller, Ryan garnered critical praise for his short story collections, "The Dream Life of Astronauts" and "Send Me". He also served as the associate editor of Granta and currently holds the position of editor of the prestigious literary magazine, One Story. His extensive experience both as a writer and an editor shines through in the meticulously crafted narrative of 'Buckeye'.

Buckeye A Read with Jenna Pick Summary PDF

'Buckeye A Read with Jenna Pick' by Patrick Ryan unfolds in the quaint, yet secret-laden, town of Bonhomie, Ohio, beginning in the celebratory aftermath of World War II's end in Europe. The novel's inciting incident is a clandestine moment of passion between Cal Jenkins, a man burdened by his inability to serve in the war, and Margaret Salt, whose husband, Felix, is presumed lost at sea. This fleeting encounter, born of grief and a longing for connection, ignites a secret that will profoundly impact the lives of two intertwined families for decades to come.

As the years pass and America reconstructs itself, the hidden truth festers beneath the surface of small-town life, revealing itself in unexpected ways through the next generation. The narrative expertly navigates the evolving social landscape from the 1940s through the 1970s, showcasing how historical events like the Vietnam War further complicate the characters' personal struggles. Cal's wife, Becky, a woman with a unique spiritual gift as a seer, adds another layer of intrigue and mystery to the unfolding drama, as she often helps townspeople connect with their lost loved ones.

The story delves deep into the complexities of love, betrayal, and the difficult journey toward forgiveness. Tom, Margaret's son, known as "Buckeye" for his childhood habit of collecting nuts, becomes a pivotal character, wrestling with his identity and the legacy of his family's buried past. Ultimately, Ryan's "Buckeye" is a compelling family saga that examines the enduring power of secrets, the weight of choices, and the profound longing for connection and redemption that defines the human spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions about Buckeye A Read with Jenna Pick

1. What is 'Buckeye A Read with Jenna Pick' about?

   'Buckeye' is a sweeping historical fiction novel by Patrick Ryan that tells the story of two interconnected families, the Jenkins and the Salts, in the fictional Ohio town of Bonhomie. The narrative spans from World War II to the late twentieth century, exploring the profound and decades-long consequences of a single secret born from a moment of passion after the Allied victory in Europe. It delves into themes of love, loss, betrayal, family dynamics, and the pursuit of forgiveness against the backdrop of changing American society.

2. Who is the author of 'Buckeye'?

   The author of 'Buckeye A Read with Jenna Pick' is Patrick Ryan. He is also known for his critically acclaimed short story collections, "The Dream Life of Astronauts" and "Send Me," and serves as the editor of *One Story* literary magazine. 'Buckeye' marks his highly successful debut adult novel, earning a spot on the New York Times bestseller list.

3. What are the main themes explored in 'Buckeye'?

   'Buckeye' explores a rich array of themes, including the lasting impact of family secrets, the complexities of love and infidelity, the difficult path to forgiveness and redemption, and the search for identity. It also examines the influence of historical events, particularly World War II and the Vietnam War, on individual lives and small-town communities, and the idea that nothing truly stays buried forever in a close-knit setting.

4. Why is 'Buckeye' a "Read with Jenna" pick?

   Jenna Bush Hager of the TODAY show selected 'Buckeye' as a "Read with Jenna Pick" for its compelling narrative, unforgettable characters, and profound emotional depth. She described it as a "once-in-a-decade epic" that captivated her so much she wanted to reread its 500 pages immediately, praising its exploration of love, war, family secrets, and the American dream. The novel's ability to make readers fall in love with its characters and reflect on the complexities of human relationships resonated deeply with her.

5. What time period does 'Buckeye' cover?

   'Buckeye' by Patrick Ryan spans several significant decades of American history. The story begins in the post-World War II era, specifically with the celebration of Allied victory in Europe, and continues to unfold through the late twentieth century, encompassing the period of the Vietnam War. This broad historical scope allows the novel to examine the social and cultural changes of mid-century America through the lens of its characters' evolving lives.