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Shining Lights of Our Democracy
Love and Protest follows the lives of two young women who while being from different generations are linked through the one woman’s diary from the 1960’s. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Many years ago, my friend and I found a diary tucked away in a drawer in a second-hand store. I knew one day I’d get around to using that idea in a story. But I thought I’d write about a road trip in search of the “old lady” with several adventures along the way. A Thelma and Louise sort of thing. When I finally got around to writing my diary story, it demanded a more serious tone.
In a lot of contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in this story?
Yes, there are bits. I’ve been to marches, but I’ve never been involved in organizing one.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I’ve always liked the concept of ordinary people getting involved in making a difference for the greater good. As this story says, activists are the shining lights of our democracy. They expose the dark corners of government and power.
Coming of age in a time of political unrest is complex, and I hope this book encourages the reader to think about the strength of involvement and the belief in something worth fighting for. It’s my nod to social activism.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
At the moment, I’m going back to my original love, which is short stories. A piece in my short story collection, “Like The Flies On The Patio” inspired my first novel, The Clock Of Life. Perhaps that will happen again.
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Harper is certain her recently deceased mother arranged this discovery, and she gives the find special import. The diary entries help Harper cope with her loss and motivate her to become involved in something larger than herself.
After deciding her cause would be the Black Lives Matter movement, COVID-19 unexpectedly upends her plans. Her media-fueled fears and obsession with the growing death count drive her into isolation, until the George Floyd murder. Separated by generations, Harper and Liberty’s heartbreaks and missteps are intertwined as they come of age and find their individual paths toward activism.
Love and Protest
Love and Protest intertwines the lives of two young women, Harper and Libby, separated by time but united by their struggles for independence and identity. Harper, a modern teen from Hickory Springs, finds solace and inspiration in the 1960s diary of Libby, a girl who embarked on a daring journey to San Francisco during the height of the counterculture movement. As Harper delves into Libby’s past, she gains the courage to confront her own challenges and the oppressive circumstances of her life.
Author Nancy Klann-Moren’s writing shines with vivid descriptions and authentic character voices. The opening scene, where Harper stumbles upon the Second Chance Thrift Shop, is particularly evocative. The humidity of a Georgia day, the dusty nightstand with the diary, and the quaint charm of the shopkeeper all create a richly textured world. The narrative seamlessly shifts between Harper’s present-day struggles and Libby’s historical journey, maintaining a compelling pace that keeps the reader engaged.
One of the most poignant aspects of the book is its exploration of generational struggles and the quest for personal freedom. Harper’s discovery of Libby’s diary acts as a catalyst for her own transformation. The entries dated January 1 and January 4, 1967, reveal Libby’s determination to break free from her repressive environment. This historical perspective, I think, adds depth to Harper’s contemporary story, highlighting the universal desire for self-determination and the courage it takes to pursue one’s dreams.
The themes of addiction and recovery are handled with sensitivity and realism. Harper’s mother’s battle with opioids following a debilitating injury is portrayed with stark honesty. The emotional turmoil and the impact on Harper’s life are palpable. This subplot is not just a backdrop but a significant part of Harper’s growth. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of addiction, making Harper’s journey toward finding hope and strength all the more impactful.
While the story excels in its character development and vivid descriptions, one area that I think could be improved is the pacing in the book’s middle sections. I feel that the transitions between Harper’s and Libby’s narratives can sometimes feel abrupt, and the detailed exploration of certain subplots, like Harper’s interactions with secondary characters, occasionally slows the momentum.
Love and Protest is a compelling read for those who appreciate character-driven stories with rich historical contexts. Nancy Klann-Moren’s ability to weave together the past and present through the lives of two resilient young women is engaging and thought-provoking. This book is particularly well-suited for readers interested in historical fiction, coming-of-age stories, and narratives that tackle social issues with a heartfelt touch.
Pages: 301 | ASIN : B0D2VMQGJT
LITERARY TITAN 