The Book of Ruth
In 'The Book of Ruth' by Jane Hamilton, readers are drawn into the life of a young woman navigating the complexities of family, love, and self-discovery in rural America. Ruth's relationships with her troubled mother and equally flawed partners reveal the intricate dance between hope and despair. With a backdrop of hardship, Ruth's resilience shines as she seeks connection and understanding amidst the chaos. This poignant tale invites readers to ponder the enduring bonds of loyalty and the bittersweet nature of life's choices. Will Ruth find the redemption she longs for, or will her past forever haunt her?
By Jane Hamilton
Published: NaN
"The world is full of struggle, and within that struggle lies the beauty of resilience and love."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
Winner of the 1989 PEN/Hemingway Foundation Award for best first novel, this exquisite book confronts real-life issues of alienation and violence from which the author creates a stunning testament to the human capacity for mercy, compassion and love.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from The Book of Ruth
About the Author
Jane Hamilton
Jane Hamilton is an acclaimed American author known for her poignant explorations of human relationships and her keen insights into the complexities of life. Her notable works include the bestselling novels 'Map of the World,' which was a finalist for the National Book Award, and 'The Book of Ruth,' a powerful portrayal of family dynamics that won the PEN/Hemingway Award. Hamilton's writing is characterized by its emotional depth, richly drawn characters, and a lyrical prose style that draws readers into the intimate worlds she creates. Hamilton's narratives often blend elements of tragedy and humor, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the human experience.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Jane Hamilton
- Published
- N/A
- Publisher
- Houghton Mifflin
- ISBN
- 0395866502
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 344
- Genres
- Contemporary FictionFictionLiteratureLiterary Fiction
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Left Hand of Darkness
Ursula K. Le Guin
Better Web Typography for a Better Web
Matej Latin
Around the Way Girl
Taraji P. Henson, Denene Millner
Political Fictions
Joan Didion
A Wrinkle in Time
Madeleine L'Engle
The Four-chambered Heart
Anaïs Nin
The Liars' Club
Mary Karr
The Writing Class
Jincy Willett
Stories of Your Life and Others
Ted Chiang
Lincoln in the Bardo
George Saunders
A Million Little Pieces
James Frey
The Gallic Wars (Lllustrated)
Julius Caesar
Early Middle English Literature
Richard Middlewood Wilson
A Gentleman in Moscow
Amor Towles
I Am Legend
Richard Matheson
The Library Book
Susan Orlean
The Secrets We Kept
Lara Prescott
Daisy Jones & The Six
Taylor Jenkins Reid
Punished by Rewards
Alfie Kohn
The Nickel Boys (Winner 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)
Colson Whitehead
Avid Reader
Robert Gottlieb
Wavell: the Viceroy's Journal
Archibald Percival Wavell Earl of Wavell
The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao (Pulitzer Prize Winner)
Junot Díaz
Three Book Sebald Set
W. G. Sebald
Hannah Versus the Tree
Leland De la Durantaye
Rice, Noodle, Fish
Matt Goulding
We Cast a Shadow
Maurice Carlos Ruffin
Verity
Colleen Hoover
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Amanda Palmer's Book Recommendations
Amanda Palmer is an American singer-songwriter, author, and performance artist, best known for her work as a solo artist and as part of the band The Dresden Dolls. Palmer is known for her theatrical performances, genre-blending music, and her strong connection with her fanbase. She has been a pioneer in crowdfunding, raising millions to fund her creative projects through platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon. Palmer is also the author of The Art of Asking, where she explores themes of vulnerability, creativity, and connection. Her work transcends traditional music, blending performance art, activism, and community engagement.
View Collection
Alain de Botton's Book Recommendations
Alain de Botton is a Swiss-British philosopher, author, and founder of The School of Life, an organization dedicated to teaching emotional intelligence and life skills. De Botton’s books, such as The Consolations of Philosophy and How Proust Can Change Your Life, blend philosophy with everyday life, offering practical wisdom on love, work, and happiness. His work has popularized philosophy, making it accessible to a wider audience. De Botton is also a public speaker and essayist, frequently exploring topics related to human fulfillment and personal growth. His unique approach to philosophy has made him a respected voice in contemporary culture.
View Collection
Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations
Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
View Collection
Jack Edwards's Book Recommendations
Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.
View Collection
Harry Styles's Book Recommendations
Harry Styles is a British singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as a member of the globally successful boy band One Direction before launching a successful solo career. Styles’ solo work has earned critical acclaim for its blend of rock, pop, and indie influences, with hits like Sign of the Times and Watermelon Sugar. In addition to music, Styles has also made a mark in fashion, known for his gender-fluid style and collaborations with brands like Gucci. He is also an actor, starring in films like Dunkirk and Don't Worry Darling. Styles is recognized for his artistic versatility and cultural impact.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Hillary Clinton's Book Recommendations
Hillary Clinton is an American politician, diplomat, and former First Lady of the United States, who served as U.S. Secretary of State from 2009 to 2013. Clinton was the Democratic nominee for president in 2016, becoming the first woman to win the nomination of a major U.S. political party. Throughout her career, Clinton has been a strong advocate for women’s rights, healthcare reform, and human rights. She is also the author of several books, including What Happened, which chronicles her 2016 presidential campaign. Clinton’s impact on American politics, particularly as a champion for gender equality and social justice, remains significant.
View Collection
Emily Ratajkowski's Book Recommendations
Emily Ratajkowski is a renowned model, actress, and author, who gained prominence in the entertainment industry through her work in fashion and film. She made a significant literary contribution with her debut book, "My Body," published in 2021, which explores themes of feminism, sexuality, and empowerment. The book received critical acclaim for its insightful and candid examination of her experiences in the public eye. Ratajkowski's writing has been praised for its depth and honesty, shedding light on the complexities of body politics and personal agency. Beyond her literary endeavors, she continues to use her platform to advocate for women's rights and social justice.
View Collection
Stephen King's Book Recommendations
Stephen King, born on September 21, 1947, is a prolific American author known for his masterful storytelling in the horror, supernatural fiction, suspense, and fantasy genres. He has penned over 60 novels, many of which have become bestsellers, including iconic works like "Carrie," "The Shining," and "It." King's influence extends beyond books as several of his works have been adapted into successful films and TV series. He has received numerous awards, including the Bram Stoker Award and the National Medal of Arts. King's ability to blend everyday scenarios with the macabre has cemented his status as a cornerstone of contemporary literature.
View Collection
Ellen DeGeneres's Book Recommendations
Ellen DeGeneres is an acclaimed American comedian, television host, actress, and writer. She gained immense popularity with her Emmy-winning daytime talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," which debuted in 2003 and ran for 19 successful seasons. In the literary world, DeGeneres has authored several bestselling books, including "My Point... And I Do Have One" and "Seriously... I'm Kidding," which showcase her signature humor and candid storytelling. Her work has significantly contributed to discussions on LGBTQ+ issues, especially following her historic coming out in 1997. DeGeneres is also known for her philanthropic efforts, frequently using her platform to support various charitable causes.
View Collection
Hugh Jackman's Book Recommendations
Hugh Jackman, better known for his illustrious acting career, has made significant contributions to literature through his co-authorship of the popular children's book series, "The School of Life." Born in Sydney, Australia, Jackman has seamlessly transitioned from stage and screen to the literary world, captivating young readers with his imaginative storytelling. His work in literature reflects his versatility and dedication to inspiring and educating children. Alongside his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, Jackman has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, promoting literacy and education globally. Despite his Hollywood fame, Jackman's contributions to literature highlight his commitment to nurturing young minds.
View Collection
Claire Diaz-Ortiz's Book Recommendations
Claire Diaz-Ortiz is a prominent author, speaker, and technology innovator known for her influential work at Twitter, where she played a key role in promoting the platform's use for social good. She has authored several notable books, including "Twitter for Good" and "Design Your Day," which offer insights into leveraging social media for activism and optimizing personal productivity, respectively. Diaz-Ortiz is also recognized for her contributions to leadership literature, particularly through her co-authored works with Ken Blanchard. She is a sought-after keynote speaker and has been featured in major media outlets for her expertise in technology and social impact. Beyond her writing, she is committed to philanthropic endeavors and mentoring women entrepreneurs globally.
View Collection
Emily Blunt's Book Recommendations
Emily Blunt is an acclaimed British actress known for her versatility and powerful performances in film and television. Though not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, her portrayal of literary characters in film adaptations, such as "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins, has brought literary works to a broader audience. Her role in this film was highly praised and showcased her ability to bring depth to complex characters. Blunt has received numerous awards, including a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award, solidifying her status in the entertainment industry. Her contributions extend beyond acting, as she continues to inspire through her diverse roles and commitment to her craft.
View Collection
Colin Firth's Book Recommendations
Colin Firth is a British actor known for his roles in films such as The King’s Speech, Pride and Prejudice, and A Single Man. Firth’s portrayal of King George VI in The King’s Speech earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. He is widely respected for his ability to bring depth and nuance to a wide range of characters, from romantic leads to complex historical figures. Firth is also a passionate advocate for human rights and environmental causes, using his platform to support charitable organizations. His combination of talent and activism has made him one of the most admired actors in the film industry.
View Collection“The world is full of struggle, and within that struggle lies the beauty of resilience and love.”
The Book of Ruth
By Jane Hamilton
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.