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Book Review of The Coal Tattoo

The Coal Tattoo
The Coal Tattoo
Author: Silas House
Genre: Literature & Fiction
Book Type: Paperback
reviewed on
Helpful Score: 1


The author evokes a strong sense of place in his descriptions of the coal mining country and land in this novel. Had I been born there and left, I think this novel would have given me a strong sense of nostalgia. The sisters' relationship, with its ups and downs and ultimately, its loyalty, was the main theme of the novel. Faith played another strong role as a theme, as did music and the power of song to uplift the soul. I felt myself slow down and relax to the pace of the dialogue and descriptions as I read this novel. The authors' love for this area of the country was evident. An enjoyable read and glimpse into small town Kentucky in the second half of the 20th century.