Best Small Town America Books: 20 Key Titles

See Best Deals

Oona Out of Order

by Margarita Montimore

Oona Out of Order by Margarita Montimore is a captivating novel that takes readers on a journey through time and self-discovery. The story revolves around Oona, who inexplicably starts living her life out of order, waking up in a different year of her life each New Year’s Day. As she navigates through the unpredictability of her existence, Oona must grapple with the challenges of living in a world that she doesn’t fully understand. The novel delves into themes of identity, love, and the passage of time, offering a unique perspective on the human experience.

Montimore’s writing is both poignant and humorous, drawing readers into Oona’s whirlwind adventure as she strives to make sense of her unconventional predicament. The novel’s exploration of relationships and personal growth makes it a compelling read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and heartwarming story. With its imaginative premise and relatable characters, Oona Out of Order is a must-read for fans of time-travel fiction and those looking for a fresh take on the challenges of navigating life’s uncertainties.

See Best Deals

Little Fires Everywhere

by Celeste Ng

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng is a captivating book about small town America that delves into the complexities of family, identity, and secrets. Set in the idyllic suburb of Shaker Heights, Ohio, the novel follows the intertwined lives of two families – the picture-perfect Richardsons and the enigmatic Warrens. When Mia Warren, an artist and single mother, and her daughter Pearl rent a house from the Richardsons, their lives become deeply intertwined, leading to a series of events that ignite small fires of conflict and revelation.

Ng skillfully explores the themes of conformity, privilege, and the weight of secrets in a tightly-knit community, making the reader question the true meaning of motherhood, friendship, and belonging. The novel’s richly drawn characters and intricate plot make it a compelling book on small town America that will keep readers engrossed until the very last page.

See Best Deals

The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a captivating novel set in the rugged wilderness of Alaska, a far cry from the typical small town America setting. The story follows the Allbright family as they embark on a new life in the remote landscape, hoping to escape the turmoil of the 1970s and start afresh. As they settle into their isolated cabin, they are forced to confront the harsh realities of living in the untamed wilderness, testing their resilience and relationships.

Kristin Hannah’s vivid storytelling brings to life the breathtaking beauty and unforgiving nature of Alaska, creating a rich backdrop for the family’s emotional journey. The novel explores themes of survival, love, and the impact of isolation on the human spirit. With its evocative prose and compelling characters, The Great Alone is a powerful exploration of the complexities of family dynamics in a challenging and unforgiving environment.

See Best Deals

Beartown

by Fredrik Backman

Beartown by Fredrik Backman is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of life in a small, close-knit community. Set in a small town in America, the story revolves around the local ice hockey team and the impact it has on the town’s residents. Backman masterfully weaves together the lives of various characters, exploring their relationships, aspirations, and struggles.

The novel grapples with themes of loyalty, ambition, and the dark underbelly of small-town dynamics. Backman’s poignant and evocative writing paints a vivid picture of the town and its inhabitants, drawing readers into the heart of Beartown and its intertwined destinies.

With its rich character development and thought-provoking narrative, Beartown is a compelling exploration of the complexities and challenges of life in a small American town. Backman’s storytelling prowess shines through in this emotionally resonant portrayal of the human experience within the backdrop of small-town America.

See Best Deals

Where the Crawdads Sing

by Delia Owens

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens is a captivating novel set in the marshlands of North Carolina, a book about small town America. The story follows the life of Kya Clark, a young girl who grows up isolated from society in the small coastal town of Barkley Cove. As Kya navigates the complexities of her unconventional upbringing and the challenges of living in a small town, she becomes embroiled in a gripping murder mystery that sends shockwaves through the entire community.

Through lush descriptions of the natural world and evocative storytelling, Owens paints a vivid portrait of small town America, capturing the essence of rural life and the intricacies of human connection and resilience. With themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of belonging, Where the Crawdads Sing is a compelling exploration of the human spirit and the power of nature in shaping our destinies. Readers will be swept away by the haunting beauty of this small town America book and its unforgettable characters.

See Best Deals

The Dutch House

by Ann Patchett

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the enduring impact of the past. Set in post-war America, the story follows the lives of siblings Danny and Maeve as they navigate the intricacies of their dysfunctional family and the grandiose mansion they grew up in, known as the Dutch House. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and forgiveness as the siblings grapple with their tumultuous upbringing and the lasting effects it has had on their lives. Through Patchett’s masterful storytelling, readers are transported to the heart of small-town America, where the intricacies of human relationships and the power of resilience are brought to life. The Dutch House is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of family, home, and the enduring bonds that tie us to our past.

See Best Deals

The Giver of Stars

by Jojo Moyes

The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes is a captivating novel set in the heart of rural Kentucky during the 1930s. This mesmerizing tale follows a group of extraordinary women who join the Pack Horse Library Project, delivering books to the inhabitants of small-town America. As they navigate the rugged terrain and face various challenges, these brave women form deep bonds and find empowerment through their love of literature. Moyes’ rich storytelling transports readers to a bygone era, immersing them in the beauty and hardships of small-town America. The novel beautifully captures the spirit of community, friendship, and resilience against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains. With its vivid characters and evocative setting, The Giver of Stars is a poignant and uplifting ode to the power of books and the human spirit.

See Best Deals

The Nickel Boys

by Colson Whitehead

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead is a gripping and poignant book about small town America. Set in the 1960s, it follows the story of Elwood Curtis, a bright and ambitious African American teenager who is unjustly sentenced to a brutal reform school called the Nickel Academy in Florida. At Nickel, Elwood encounters corruption, abuse, and violence, and the novel explores the harrowing experiences of him and his fellow inmates as they strive for survival and justice in a system that is stacked against them.

Whitehead’s powerful storytelling and vivid prose shine a light on the dark and haunting reality of the American South during this era, shedding light on the cruel and inhumane treatment of young black men. Through Elwood’s journey, the novel examines themes of injustice, resilience, and the enduring impact of trauma, making it a captivating and thought-provoking read. The Nickel Boys is a haunting and important small town America book that will leave a lasting impression on its readers.

See Best Deals

The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a gripping psychological thriller that takes readers on a journey into the mind of Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who has been convicted of murdering her husband and then went completely silent. The story is set in a quaint, close-knit community, with secrets lurking behind every corner. The small town America atmosphere adds to the sense of mystery and intrigue, as the protagonist, Theo Faber, a forensic psychologist, becomes obsessed with unlocking Alicia’s silence and uncovering the truth behind the murder.

This book about small town America is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. Michaelides’ writing is taut and atmospheric, creating a sense of unease that permeates the entire story. The Silent Patient is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone who enjoys a dark, compelling tale set in a small town America.

See Best Deals

The Water Dancer

by Ta-Nehisi Coates

The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a powerful and moving novel that takes readers on a journey through the harsh realities of life in rural America during the antebellum era. Set in the heart of small-town America, the story follows Hiram Walker, a young man born into slavery on a Virginia plantation. Hiram possesses a mysterious power that allows him to transport himself and others through space and time, a gift that becomes a catalyst for his journey to freedom.

Coates skillfully weaves together history, magic, and the resilience of the human spirit in this captivating narrative. Through Hiram’s experiences, readers gain insight into the complexities of the slave experience in small-town America, as well as the enduring strength and hope that sustained those who faced unimaginable hardships.

The Water Dancer is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the struggles and triumphs of individuals living in the rural South, making it a compelling and essential read for anyone interested in the history and culture of small-town America.

See Best Deals

The Testaments

by Margaret Atwood

The Testaments is a gripping dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood, set in a world where women’s rights have been stripped away and a totalitarian regime rules with an iron fist. The story follows the lives of three women – Aunt Lydia, a high-ranking official in the oppressive regime; Agnes, a young girl raised in the strict society; and Daisy, a rebellious teenager living in small-town America. As their lives intertwine, they become embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy that could change the course of their world forever. With its powerful storytelling and thought-provoking themes, The Testaments offers a chilling and timely exploration of the consequences of totalitarianism and the resilience of the human spirit. Atwood’s masterful prose and intricate world-building will keep readers on the edge of their seats, making this a must-read for anyone interested in a compelling small town America book with a dystopian twist.

See Best Deals

The Tattooist of Auschwitz

by Heather Morris

The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris is a gripping and emotional novel set in the harrowing backdrop of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp during World War II. Based on the true story of Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew who becomes the tattooist at the camp, the book follows his experiences and the extraordinary love story that unfolds amidst the horrors of the Holocaust. Morris expertly captures the resilience and humanity of the characters, offering a poignant portrayal of survival and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

See Best Deals

The Alice Network

by Kate Quinn

The Alice Network by Kate Quinn is a captivating historical fiction novel set in the aftermath of World War I and during World War II. The story follows two indomitable women, Charlie St. Clair and Eve Gardiner, as they embark on a thrilling journey of espionage, courage, and redemption. The novel weaves together the lives of these two women, one an American socialite searching for her cousin in post-war Europe, the other a former spy haunted by her past in small town America.

As they join forces to unearth the truth about their shared history, they form an unlikely bond that will change both of their lives forever. The book takes readers on a gripping adventure filled with secrets, betrayals, and the unbreakable spirit of the women who risked everything to fight for what they believe in. The Alice Network is a powerful and evocative tale that explores the complexities of loyalty, bravery, and the resilience of the human spirit in the backdrop of small town America.

See Best Deals

The Nightingale

by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is a captivating historical fiction novel set in a quaint, provincial village in France during World War II. The story follows the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they navigate the challenges and tragedies of war. Vianne, a devoted wife and mother, must summon immense courage to protect her family and resist the occupying German forces. Meanwhile, Isabelle, a rebellious and passionate young woman, becomes involved in the French Resistance, risking her life to fight for freedom and justice.

As the war rages on, the sisters’ paths diverge, leading them on separate but equally harrowing journeys. The Nightingale is a poignant tale of love, sacrifice, and resilience, set against the backdrop of a small village in France. With richly drawn characters and evocative prose, Kristin Hannah’s novel offers a powerful portrayal of the human spirit and the enduring bonds of family. This book about small town america will take readers on a heart-wrenching and unforgettable journey through a tumultuous period in history.

See Best Deals

The Underground Railroad

by Colson Whitehead

The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is a captivating and powerful novel that takes readers on a journey through the harsh realities of small-town America during the era of slavery. The story follows Cora, a young slave on a cotton plantation in Georgia, as she embarks on a daring escape via the Underground Railroad, a secret network of routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to flee to freedom. Whitehead’s vivid and evocative prose brings to life the dangers and struggles faced by Cora as she navigates through a series of underground tunnels and hidden passages, encountering both allies and foes along the way. Through Cora’s harrowing odyssey, Whitehead offers a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the enduring legacy of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit. With its unflinching portrayal of the brutality of slavery and its powerful themes of hope and determination, The Underground Railroad is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of small-town America and the fight for freedom.

See Best Deals

The Girl on the Train

by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping psychological thriller that takes readers on a suspenseful journey through the complexities of human relationships and the dark secrets that lie hidden in the seemingly idyllic landscape of suburban life. Set in a quaint and insular community, the novel delves into the lives of three women, each struggling with their own personal demons and entangled in a web of lies and deceit. The story unfolds through the perspectives of these women, offering a compelling and multifaceted portrayal of the dynamics at play in a small town setting.

As the narrative unravels, the reader is drawn deeper into the intricate plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the suspense at a fever pitch. The Girl on the Train is a masterful exploration of the dark underbelly of small town America, where appearances can be deceiving and the truth is often obscured by the veneer of suburban perfection.

See Best Deals

The Goldfinch

by Donna Tartt

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a captivating novel that takes readers on a journey through the world of art, love, and loss. Set in a small town in America, the story follows Theo Decker, a young boy who survives a tragic accident that changes the course of his life. As Theo navigates the complexities of grief and growing up, he becomes entangled in the underworld of art theft, leading to a thrilling and emotional tale of survival and redemption.

Tartt’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions bring the small town America setting to life, immersing readers in the rich and intricate world of the characters. The novel delves into themes of friendship, betrayal, and the power of art, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read. The Goldfinch is a spellbinding exploration of the human experience, set against the backdrop of a small town in America, and will leave readers pondering its profound impact long after turning the final page.

See Best Deals

The Help

by Kathryn Stockett

The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a compelling and thought-provoking novel set in the backdrop of small town America during the 1960s. The story revolves around the lives of three women, Aibileen, Minny, and Skeeter, who embark on a courageous journey to challenge the status quo of racial segregation and discrimination in their community.

As they come together to tell their stories and experiences, they navigate through the complexities of race, class, and gender, shedding light on the harsh realities and injustices prevalent in their society. Stockett skillfully weaves a narrative that delves into the deep-seated prejudices and struggles faced by the characters, while also celebrating the resilience and strength of the human spirit.

The Help is a poignant and powerful portrayal of the dynamics of small town America, offering a glimpse into the lives of individuals who dare to defy societal norms and fight for justice and equality. This book about small town America is a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to speak up.

See Best Deals

The Secret Life of Bees

by Sue Monk Kidd

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd is a captivating novel set in a rural Southern community during the 1960s. This powerful coming-of-age story revolves around a young girl named Lily Owens, who escapes her troubled home in search of answers about her mother’s past. The novel delves into themes of love, loss, and the power of female relationships, as Lily finds solace and guidance in the company of three beekeeping sisters.

Against the backdrop of a small town in South Carolina, the author intricately weaves together the dynamics of race, prejudice, and the quest for belonging. Through vivid imagery and poignant storytelling, Kidd transports readers to a world teeming with rich characters and emotional depth. The Secret Life of Bees is a poignant exploration of the human spirit and the resilience of the human heart, making it a must-read for anyone drawn to the complexities of life in a rural Southern setting.

See Best Deals

To Kill a Mockingbird

by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a timeless classic that takes readers on a journey through the small town of Maycomb, Alabama in the 1930s. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the novel explores the complexities of small town America, addressing issues of racism, prejudice, and morality. The story centers around Scout’s father, Atticus Finch, a lawyer who defends a black man accused of raping a white woman, despite facing backlash from the town’s residents. As the trial unfolds, the novel delves into the deep-seated prejudices and injustices that plague the community. Through poignant storytelling and memorable characters, Lee captures the essence of small town America, and the challenges of navigating societal expectations and moral dilemmas. With its powerful themes and evocative prose, To Kill a Mockingbird remains a thought-provoking and relevant portrayal of the complexities of small town life.