Book Review of Run for the Hills
Run for the Hills: A Journey of Unexpected Familial Connections
When I first picked up Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson, I was drawn in by the intriguing premise of family and the nuanced exploration of identity, much like I was with his earlier works. Wilson has a unique knack for crafting storytelling that straddles the line between the fantastical and the razor-sharp realities of life. In his previous novel, Nothing to See Here, readers navigated the surreal challenges of raising children that catch fire when upset—a curious, delightful adventure. In Run for the Hills, however, the story appears much more grounded yet beautifully absurd in its own right, and I found myself just as enchanted.
Set in the fall of 1982, the story introduces us to Madeline “Mad” Hill, a young girl on a picturesque farm life with her parents, making sorghum syrup under the autumn sun. The early interactions between Mad and her father are especially touching, filled with optimism and warmth. As he muses about the day when she’ll share this tradition with her own children, it feels like a scene straight out of a family photo album—a moment frozen in time, rich with love and family legacy.
However, this idyllic life is abruptly shifted when we leap forward to present-day Mad, who, two decades later, finds herself still on the farm but without her father; he has vanished without a trace. The introduction of her half-brother, Reuben, into her life is a jarring yet compelling twist. His abrupt arrival in a boxy Chrysler PT Cruiser invites intrigue and suspicion. As Mad grapples with the possibility of having siblings she never knew, compounded by the feeling of betrayal from a father who essentially abandoned her—not once, but twice—Wilson expertly captures the complexity of familial relationships.
One of the most striking aspects of Wilson’s writing is the authenticity of his characters. Mad’s internal struggle resonates deeply; she ponders, “This wasn’t supposed to be how a family worked.” This line encapsulates her turmoil perfectly, blending humor with heartache in a way that is relatable without veering into melodrama. The dynamics between Mad and her newfound siblings are filled with tension and humor, as they traverse the landscapes of the past while trying to forge a new future together.
Wilson’s unconventional storytelling and relatable characters keep the pacing brisk and engaging. His tone—a blend of warmth, humor, and emotional depth—makes the pages turn effortlessly. The quirks of the characters feel genuine, and their interactions evoke a range of emotions, from laughter to poignant moments of reflection.
While Run for the Hills might seem to explore the typical themes of family and belonging, it goes beyond the trope, offering a nuanced perspective on how we define family. It is, indeed, about finding and creating family, challenging the notion of familiar ties in unexpected yet meaningful ways.
For those who appreciate stories rich in character development and emotional truths, Wilson’s latest offering is a must-read. It’s not just a book about family; it’s an exploration of self-discovery, resilience, and the curious paths that life takes us down. Personally, I found my understanding of family dynamics deepened and my heart warmed through Mad’s journey—no easy feat in a world that often feels chaotic. If you’re looking for a story that intertwines humor, love, and the complexities of human connection, Run for the Hills is a delightful addition to your reading list.
My heartfelt thanks to HarperCollins and Edelweiss+ for the opportunity to read a digital ARC in exchange for this honest review. I can’t wait to hear what you all think!
