The River Is Home: A Novel

Patrick Smith was 25 years old when he wrote this story about growing up on the Pearl River in Mississippi. It's a story of survival in the wilderness and living from the land and the water, the daily tasks of fishermen, of family cooperation and love, of risks and triumphs, of poverty and abundance, a story beautifully woven with descriptions of the swamp and its bounty.His first novel, he wasn't sure how to go about getting it published, so he checked the book he was reading at the time and found the name of the most distinguished publisher in the country. He sent his manuscript to their address with an attached note, "Please publish this immediately." His answer by mail followed very soon. "We will."

I have enjoyed all the Patrick Smith books.

This was an interesting read, without any suspense in it. Don't know if it was worth $16 dollars

The story was happy. Despite obstacles, the characters had the will to make it in the swamps of the Pearl River. The description of the people, their habitat and their way of life was fascinating. I couldn't wait to see what was for dinner! Reading the dialect got a little old but it was quite an accomplishment for the author. Good read for anyone but especially for people from that part of the world...like me.

The story is a good tale. It is hindered somewhat, however, by the voices of the characters speaking the phonetic jargon of southern river folk of the 1800's. The dialogue is a bit cluttered with words that cause the reader less than swift passage through sentences. The descriptions are as rich and lush as southern river basins are wont to be. Insights into the personalities and minds of the characters, especially Skeeter, are purely soulful. All in all, an enjoyable outing with Mr. Smith, but no where nearly as powerful as A Land Remembered, Forever Island or Allapattah.

This was another good read by the author of "A Land Remembered". The dialect was a bit hard to understand,,,,but over all was excellent. I would like to know what happened to some of the characters after the end of the book....left a bit unfinished.

Because I am a Floridian by birth, my sister suggested I read this book and I am not one bit sorry that I read about my long ago beginnings. The aurthor has won Pulitiszer prizes and his son continues to promote for him.

This book is a marvelous picture of life on the Pearl River, It is really a slice of life with vivid details and wonderful characters, which takes the reader to a time and place not often heard about. A short book, it's a very fast read. You want to know what's coming next with every page I definitely recommend The River Is Home..