65 pages • 2 hours read
Nathan HarrisThe Sweetness of Water
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Set in the fictional town of Old Ox, Georgia, immediately following the Civil War, The Sweetness of Water follows two formerly enslaved men, Prentiss and Landry, as they adjust to their newfound freedom under the Emancipation Proclamation. The men meet George Walker, who offers them work on his farm. Challenges arise when George's son, Caleb, returns from the war, revealing a secret relationship with August Webler that leads to a tragic incident. The novel addresses issues of racism, starvation, and emotional suffering experienced by formerly enslaved Black individuals. The book includes depictions of antigay bias, racial slurs, and racially-motivated violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Nathan Harris's The Sweetness of Water is widely praised for its lyrical prose and poignant depiction of post-Civil War America, capturing complex characters and profound themes of freedom and humanity. However, critiques mention occasionally slow pacing and predictability in certain plot elements. Overall, it’s celebrated for its emotional depth and historical resonance.
Who Should Read The Sweetness of Water?
Readers who enjoyed The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead or The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead will appreciate The Sweetness of Water by Nathan Harris. The novel’s exploration of post-Civil War America, complex characters, and nuanced look at human relationships will captivate those interested in historical fiction and social justice themes.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Historical Fiction
African American Literature
LGBTQ
Race / Racism
Grief / Death
American Civil War
Post-War Era
Emotions/Behavior: Guilt
Emotions/Behavior: Memory
Identity: Masculinity