Daniel Mason’s new novel, “Country People,” has garnered acclaim for its inventive and heartening narrative, following his previous work, “North Woods.” This latest novel weaves together themes of family ties, folklore, and literary influences into a story with multiple layers.
The setting of “Country People” is the picturesque rural landscape of Vermont, where the Krzelewski family relocates from California. This move is prompted by Kate Krzelewski’s new role as a visiting professor. As the family acclimates to their new environment, Miles Krzelewski, who has been grappling with his doctoral research on Russian folktales, finds himself enchanted by the dense forests, rich local legends, and the area’s quirky inhabitants.
In his explorations, Miles becomes fascinated by a captivating local story about a hidden underground world, which blurs the lines between myth and reality. Throughout his journey, he meets an array of memorable characters, each with unique obsessions, contributing humor and depth to the narrative.
Critics have lauded Mason for his refined prose and imaginative storytelling. His ability to meld the mundane aspects of family life with elements of fantasy and literary allusions has been particularly praised. Described as both thoughtful and entertaining, the novel provides readers with an engaging exploration of curiosity, storytelling, and the connections that bind people together.