Book Name | The Lincoln Highway |
Author | Amor Towles |
Publisher | Penguin Books |
Publish Date | 21 March 2023 |
Paperback (Pages) | 592 pages |
Weight | 1.12 pounds |
In June 1954, Emmett Watson, an eighteen-year-old recently released from a juvenile work farm after serving fifteen months for involuntary manslaughter, sets out for Nebraska with the intention of relocating to California alongside his eight-year-old brother, Billy. Circumstances take an unexpected turn when Emmett discovers two friends hidden in the trunk of the warden's car, altering his plans dramatically. They propel Emmett toward an unforeseen journey, contrary to his initial aspirations—to embark on a transformative voyage to New York City.
Spanning a mere ten days and narrated from various perspectives, Towles's third novel promises a compelling narrative for enthusiasts of his intricate literary style. This work introduces a fresh array of vividly imagined settings, characters, and themes, catering to readers familiar with Towles's previous works while offering a distinctive narrative flavor. Embracing a departure from his prior celebrated work, "A Gentleman in Moscow," Towles exhibits a remarkable versatility in storytelling. Drawing inspiration from renowned hero’s journeys like The Iliad, The Odyssey, Hamlet, Huckleberry Finn, and Of Mice and Men, Towles underscores the unpredictable and non-linear nature of personal journeys. He subtly suggests that despite the attempts to divert or derail these paths, agency remains in steering one's course amid life's unpredictable turns. This exploration of personal agency amidst unforeseen circumstances serves as a central theme in "The Lincoln Highway," showcasing Towles's narrative prowess and depth.
Amor Towles stands as the esteemed author behind the New York Times bestsellers Rules of Civility, A Gentleman in Moscow, and The Lincoln Highway. Collectively, these three novels have garnered widespread acclaim, collectively selling millions of copies worldwide and transcending linguistic boundaries with translations available in over thirty-five languages. Towles, residing in Manhattan, shares his life with his wife and two children while continuing to captivate readers with his compelling literary works.