Are you an ardent fan of Delia Owens’ bestselling novel “Where The Crawdads Sing”? Are you for craving more books that can touch your soul and captivate your imagination in a similar fashion? You’ve come to the right place!
We understand that finding books that give you the same feeling and depth as your favorite novel can be a challenging task. That’s why we’ve done the research and curated a list of seven must-read books for fans of “Where The Crawdads Sing.”
In this article, we explore books that share elements with Delia Owens’ alluring tale of mystery, romance, and the indomitable spirit of human resilience. Each book on this list possesses a unique charm and showcases the beauty of nature, evocative storytelling, and unforgettable characters.
So, prepare yourself to dive into new literary adventures that will transport you to places just as enchanting and immersive as the marshlands of North Carolina.
Stay with us as we unveil these seven incredible books like “Where The Crawdads Sing” that you absolutely must add to your reading list.
1: Prodigal Summer
“Prodigal Summer” by Barbara Kingsolver is a beautifully written novel that takes place in the forested mountains and struggling small farms of southern Appalachia. The story unfolds over the course of a single, transformative summer and is centered around three distinct narratives. Each narrative focuses on a different character living in the same region of Virginia.
Unlike many novels with multiple perspectives, these narratives aren’t separate views of the same central story. Instead they depict the diverse lives of individuals connected to the area.
Kingsolver has been praised for her “extravagantly gifted narrative voice” by New York Times. She expertly weaves together these three stories to create a hymn to wildness that celebrates the prodigal spirit of human nature and nature itself.
Among the central characters are Deanna Wolfe, a reclusive wildlife biologist, Eddie Bondo, a young hunter who challenges her solitary life, Lusa Maluf Landowski, a bookish city girl turned farmer’s wife, and a pair of elderly, feuding neighbors. “Prodigal Summer” invites readers to explore the intricate relationships between humans, the land, and the creatures that inhabit it. It makes for a perfect addition to your reading list if you enjoyed “Where The Crawdads Sing.”
2: Where the Forest Meets the Stars
“Where the Forest Meets the Stars” by Glendy Vanderah is a captivating novel that blends magical realism with themes of love, recovery, and trust.
This 2019 debut book follows the story of graduate student and cancer survivor Jo Teale. Jo discovers a strange girl in the woods claiming to be an alien. As Jo builds a bond with the girl, she also forms a relationship with her socially anxious neighbor. It ultimately leads them on a journey of self-discovery and healing.
Vanderah’s novel is an immersive and creative exploration of challenging subject matter. This has earned it spots on the bestseller lists of Amazon Charts, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal.
The enchanting narrative, coupled with its thought-provoking themes, makes “Where the Forest Meets the Stars” a compelling read for fans of “Where The Crawdads Sing.” With its emotional depth and uplifting message, this book is sure to spark engaging discussions in book clubs. It will leave a lasting impression on you and all the readers.
3: Swamplandia!
“Swamplandia!” is Karen Russell’s debut novel, showcasing her exceptional talent and unique storytelling abilities.
Set in a run-down, offbeat theme park on the Florida coast, the story revolves around the Bigtree family. The family dons the attire of Native Americans and run the bizarre tourist attraction. The park features alligator wrestling and “Live Chicken Thursday,” where alligators snatch hens from a clothesline, drawing hundreds of visitors seeking a macabre and surreal experience.
Russell’s captivating language creates a very immersive world. It paints vivid descriptions and transports readers to a setting that feels both familiar and otherworldly.
The novel has garnered widespread acclaim, earning Russell a spot on the New Yorker’s list of the 20 best writers under 40. The novel’s haunting, moving, and powerful narrative is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.
4: My Absolute Darling
“My Absolute Darling” by Gabriel Tallent is a dark, intense, and deeply moving debut novel. It centers around 14-year-old Turtle Alveston, a resilient, outdoorsy girl living in a decrepit mansion in Northern California’s backcountry.
Turtle’s world revolves around her father, Martin, a paranoid environmentalist with an apocalyptic outlook, who she simultaneously worships and fears. The story delves into themes of isolation, imprisonment, and the impact they have on the mind, making for an emotional and at times disturbing read.
While “My Absolute Darling” is not an easy or lighthearted book, it is a cathartic exploration of resilience and self-discovery. The novel is skillfully written, with beautifully crafted sentences and a vivid, atmospheric setting. Turtle’s journey to confront the darkness in her life and the gripping, high-stakes narrative will leave a lasting impression on readers.
Fans of “Where The Crawdads Sing” who are looking for a challenging and thought-provoking read will find “My Absolute Darling” to be a powerful and unforgettable experience.
5: Before We Were Yours
“Before We Were Yours” by Lisa Wingate is a heart-wrenching, poignant novel that spans generations. It tells the tale of two families forever changed by a devastating injustice. Inspired by a true story, this historical fiction is perfect for fans of “Where the Crawdads Sing” and “Orphan Train.”
The novel follows Avery Stafford, a woman born into wealth and privilege. She uncovers a hidden history of stolen children and illegal adoptions, forcing her to confront a life-altering secret.
Wingate’s captivating language and emotionally charged storytelling will immerse readers in the lives of these characters.
As Avery delves deeper into the past, she discovers a connection to May Crandall. She is an elderly woman whose story is entwined with one of America’s most notorious scandals involving Georgia Tann. Georgia is the director of a Memphis-based adoption organization. “Before We Were Yours” is a powerful, moving novel that reminds us that no matter where life takes us, the heart never forgets where we belong.
6: The Great Alone
“The Great Alone” by Kristin Hannah is a super interesting tale of survival, love, and the challenges of life in the unforgiving Alaskan wilderness during the 1970s. It’s film adaptation is in development currently as Tristar Pictures purchased the film rights in June of 2018
You will be drawn in by the beautiful descriptions of Alaska. The intricate relationships between the family and the village, which highlight the importance of different values to different people. This page-turner not only offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of the Alaskan landscape but also the warmth and vibrancy of the small community that inhabits it.
The novel delves into the complexities of love in various forms. From the love between a parent and child to the twisted romantic love that can prove dangerous. As the story progresses, it focuses on Ernst’s violent temper and the impact it has on those around him. “
The Great Alone” offers a deep exploration of love, family, and the power of nature to shape human hearts. It’s an adventure story that goes beyond the expected. It allows readers to experience love’s limitless variety and the incredible bonds that can form within a community.
7: The Snow Child
As you dive into “The Snow Child” by Eowyn Ivey, you’ll find yourself captivated by the beautifully written story set in 1920s Alaska. The book paints a vivid picture of the tough existence of Alaskan homesteaders, Mabel and Jack. They both face the loneliness and challenges of the land with tenacity.
Through detailed character descriptions and a mesmerizing narrative, you’ll feel as if you know these characters personally. This novel is a perfect recommendation for any book club.
In this bittersweet tale of grief, hope, love, and the beauty of unusual familial bonds, the Alaskan landscape becomes a character in itself, evoking the magic of the wilderness.
The mysterious Faina adds an element of wonder to the story which unfolds in a world untouched by technology. It’s where letters are the main form of communication and self-sufficiency is the key to survival. Reading “The Snow Child” might inspire you to experience the countryside’s tranquility, at least for a little while.
