The Lacuna

In The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver, you’ll find a richly imagined historical fiction novel that blends intimate coming-of-age storytelling with the sweep of 20th-century politics. It’s the kind of book that rewards readers who love language, big ideas, and lives shaped by history.

Told through diaries and letters, the story follows Harrison William Shepherd from a coastal childhood in Mexico into the charged worlds of artists, revolutionaries, and writers. As he moves between Mexico and the United States, his work as a cook, secretary, and observer places him close to famous figures—yet his own identity remains the most intriguing mystery. Kingsolver explores belonging, secrecy, and the gaps we leave in our stories—the “lacunae” that define a life.

Perfect for readers of literary fiction, Mexico-set political novels, and character-driven narratives about art, loyalty, and self-invention.

Add it to your stack and settle in for a smart, transporting read.