Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver

A biography that reads like a novel is always a pleasant experience, but a work of fiction that reads like a biography certainly is more unusual. In Barbara Kingsolver's The Lacuna, fictional characters are blended with real historic figures, creating a beautifully written saga of a young man's slow and turbulent rise to success.

Harrison Shepherd, also called Soli, is born in the United States, but is carted off to Mexico in 1929 after his parents seperation. While his mother supports them by selling herself to the highest bidder, Soli seeks to satisfy his need for reading material, and begins keeping a journal.

After a brief sojourn back in the states with his father, Soli finds himself working for the flamboyant artist couple Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo in Coyoacan, Mexico. An avowed Communist, Rivera gives sanctuary to Russian fugitive Leon (Lev) Trotsky and his wife. Soli eventually is employed by Trotsky as a secretary, and also begins a novel of ancient Aztecs.

When Trotsky is brutally assassinated, Soli finds his way to Ashville, North Carolina where he is able to publish his novel and write to his heart's content. He hires a Mrs. Brown to assist him, and she becomes an invaluable rock of stability and loyalty.

However his association with Trotsky comes back to haunt him when he catches the attention of the Dies Committee, better known as the House Committee on Un-American Activites. Although uninterested in politics, Soli and his assistant are investigated and hounded by the press. The results are tragic and far-reaching.

This is a novel entirely created from Soli's journals, letters, published articles, and notes from his eventual archivest, Mrs. Brown. It spans two world wars and their aftermath. We are treated to up-close views of important events and famous people, putting a different perspective on history as we have known it.

Comparing this work of fiction to other recent novels, is like comparing a Dodge Dart to a Rolls Royce. A masterpiece of modern literature, this should be considered for a Pulitzer and a definite choice for the serious reader. On a scale of 1 to 10, a 10 doesn't do it justice, so add it to your winter reading list and prepare to enjoy.