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The Call of the Cumberlands   By: (1879-1930)

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Set in the rugged and captivating backdrop of the Kentucky mountains, "The Call of the Cumberlands" by Charles Neville Buck transports readers to a world of hardship, resilience, and the quest for identity. This timeless novel delves deep into the lives of its characters, offering a thought-provoking exploration of love, duty, and the eternal struggle between tradition and progress.

Buck's prose possesses an extraordinary ability to vividly depict the landscapes and people of the Appalachian region. The book's descriptions paint a vivid picture of the breathtaking scenery, allowing readers to feel as if they were truly experiencing the untamed beauty of the Cumberlands. From the rolling hills to the tranquil rivers, every page resonates with a powerful sense of place.

At the heart of the story lies Judd, a young, ambitious mountain man who embodies both the best and worst aspects of his community. Judd's journey is one of self-discovery, as he grapples with his identity, tradition, and the allure of the outside world. Through his experiences, Buck skillfully navigates the complexities of the human spirit, delving deep into themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the longing for something more.

"The Call of the Cumberlands" also captures the tension between progress and tradition, as the encroachment of a rapidly industrializing nation threatens to obliterate the mountain way of life. Buck masterfully presents the clash between those eager for change and those who hold steadfast to their customs, painting a poignant portrait of a community on the verge of collapse.

The characters in this novel are exceptionally well-drawn and multi-dimensional, each playing a crucial role in the narrative. From Judd's fiery love interest, Naomi, to the wise and venerable Uncle Hiram, their struggles and triumphs mirror the wider conflicts of their world. Their interactions are genuine and deeply human, and readers will find themselves wholly invested in their lives.

In terms of pacing, the story moves at a steady rhythm, effectively building tension and suspense. The narrative flows seamlessly, with each chapter leaving readers hungry for more. While some readers might find the plot predictable at times, Buck's skillful storytelling and rich characterization make up for any minor flaws.

"The Call of the Cumberlands" is a timeless tale that captivates with its exploration of love, duty, and the search for one's place in the world. Buck's ability to transport readers to a different time and place, combined with his insightful portrayal of humanity, makes this novel an unforgettable read. Whether one is drawn to stories of the American South or simply appreciates masterful storytelling, this book is an essential addition to any literary collection.

First Page:

THE CALL OF THE CUMBERLANDS

BY

CHARLES NEVILLE BUCK

CHAPTER I

Close to the serried backbone of the Cumberland ridge through a sky of mountain clarity, the sun seemed hesitating before its descent to the horizon. The sugar loaf cone that towered above a creek called Misery was pointed and edged with emerald tracery where the loftiest timber thrust up its crest plumes into the sun. On the hillsides it would be light for more than an hour yet, but below, where the waters tossed themselves along in a chorus of tiny cascades, the light was already thickening into a cathedral gloom. Down there the "furriner" would have seen only the rough course of the creek between moss velveted and shaded bowlders of titanic proportions. The native would have recognized the country road in these tortuous twistings. Now there were no travelers, foreign or native, and no sounds from living throats except at intervals the clear "Bob White" of a nesting partridge, and the silver confidence of the red cardinal flitting among the pines. Occasionally, too, a stray whisper of breeze stole along the creek bed and rustled the beeches, or stirred in the broad, fanlike leaves of the "cucumber trees." A great block of sandstone, to whose summit a man standing in his saddle could scarcely reach his fingertips, towered above the stream, with a gnarled scrub oak clinging tenaciously to its apex... Continue reading book >>




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