I was first introduced to this author through his previous novel, "A Gentleman in Moscow", which happens to be a beautiful story of conviction, loyalty and enduring friendship. Towles writes in a way that is complex and descriptive but also so easy to follow and enjoy. As I often do when I finish a good book, I looked to see what else he had written. "The Lincoln Highway" is Towles latest novel, published in 2021. The story begins in Nebraska, which of course grabbed my attention right away! The main character, Emmet Watson, has just been released from a juvenile work camp in Kansas and has been driven home to Nebraska by the warden. With both his parents gone, Emmet and his 8 year old brother, Billy, have plans to make a fresh start in California. But, before they can begin their journey they discover that two other boys from the work camp have hitched a ride in the warden's trunk and have plans for a trip in the opposite direction, New York. The story spans just ten days with Emmet, Billy, Duchess and Woolly traveling cross country and meeting all kinds of challenges and obstacles. In the end, learning a lot about each other and themselves.
I listened to this book on audiobook and was not disappointed! The story is told from many different point of view. Most chapters are told in the third person, except for two vocal characters with strong personalities. The narrators were excellent, changing up tone and voice for each character.
Throughout the story, you learn the past of each character, which just like in life, helps explain why they do the things that they do. I grew attached to each character (except maybe Pastor John) as I heard their story. I'm reminded of the words of another favorite book character of mine, "You never really understand a person...until you climb into his skin and walk around in it." (Atticus Finch, "To Kill a Mockingbird") I think that's what I love best about Amor Towles writing. He allows you to really get inside a character's mind and see what he sees, through the lens of his circumstances and personality.
I definitely recommend "The Lincoln Highway" and if you like audiobooks it's a good one to "read" that way! (There is a little bit of language so be warned if you're listening around little ones.
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