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Under the Rainbow

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( 4,015 ratings, 644 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Under the Rainbow by Celia Laskey is a profound exploration of heart and community as a group of activists descends upon a conservative Kansas town, aiming to transform it into the least homophobic place in America. Through the eyes of both visitors and residents, the novel delves into the complexities of identity, acceptance, and the often surprising human connections that emerge amidst clashing worldviews.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This novel may appeal to you if you enjoy stories about small-town dynamics and the complexities of human relationships. It explores themes of identity, acceptance, and community through the interactions between an LGBTQ task force and a conservative town in Kansas. With its rich character development and sharp wit, it's a compelling exploration of diverse perspectives and personal growth.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

‘Laskey is a talented, sharp writer and her debut novel has its fingers on the pulse of the human condition’ Kristen Arnett, author of The New York Times-bestseller Mostly Dead Things

‘Refreshing, smartly executed and often very funny’ Mail Online

A brilliantly observed and timely literary debut

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

‘Laskey is a talented, sharp writer and her debut novel has its fingers on the pulse of the human condition’ Kristen Arnett, author of The New York Times-bestseller Mostly Dead Things

‘Refreshing, smartly executed and often very funny’ Mail Online

Under the Rainbow is essential reading – both heartbreaking and hopeful. A novel that will stay with you’ Laura Kay, author of The Split

‘A heartwarming debut’ Now

Welcome to Big Burr, population 10,024.

Big Burr, Kansas is the kind of place where everyone knows everyone – or so they think. But after being labelled “the most homophobic town in America”, a group of queer activists are moving in, and everything is about to change.

Linda welcomes the newcomers. The less they know about the death of her son, the better. Avery is furious at being uprooted from her life in LA. She dreads her classmates discovering that her mom is the head of the queer task force. And Gabe, a lifelong Big Burr resident, is no longer sure about the life he's built with his wife.

While new friendships are formed, elsewhere tensions reach boiling point. And every resident, old and new, must reconsider the true meaning of community.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Under the Rainbow by Celia Laskey is praised for its intimate and insightful exploration of inclusivity, demonstrating a broad appeal with its humour and universal themes. Reviewers commend its timely examination of queer identities in hostile environments, lauding Laskey's narrative skill and compelling character portrayals. The novel balances current sociopolitical issues with empathy and connection, showcasing Laskey's talent as an observant and original writer.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780008481025

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 09 December 2021

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: HQ

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 18.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 210g

Pages: 288

About the Author

Celia Laskey is the author of the novel UNDER THE RAINBOW, which has been longlisted for the 2020 Center for Fiction Prize. Her work has appeared in Guernica, The Minnesota Review, Day One, and elsewhere. She was also a finalist in Glimmer Train's Short Story Award for New Writers. She has an MFA from the University of New Mexico and currently lives in Los Angeles with her wife and their dog Whiskey.

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