, through its portrayal of violence, race, and ideological confrontations, is a vivid and raw inspection of America today. Set in the American south, the novel follows two young children--fleeing a white nationalist upbringing--to their chance encounter with a large mythical man in the woods who helps them on their journey to California. When captured, events take a horrific, racial turn, one that many years later still haunts all those involved. is both thrilling and timely.