American Spirits

In American Spirits, acclaimed storyteller Russell Banks weaves three dark, interlocking tales set in the rural town of Sam Dent, New York, revealing how shocking headlines shape local mythologies. The narrative follows a husband faced with online backlash after questioning a stranger's character, a couple disturbed by their enigmatic new neighbors, and a grandson threatened by criminals who kidnap his grandparents for blackmail. This suspenseful collection delves into the complex undercurrents of community dynamics and American politics, portraying how local tragedies can profoundly impact everyday life.