All the Little Live Things

All the Little Live Things by Wallace Stegner, published by National Geographic Books in December 1991, is a literary fiction novel that explores the complexities of family life and psychological themes. The story follows Joe Allston, a retired literary agent, as he navigates the aftermath of his son’s tragic death and the tumultuous social changes of the 1960s. Seeking solace, Joe and his wife, Ruth, relocate to a seemingly idyllic California retreat, where they confront both beauty and chaos.

In this keenly observed narrative, readers will encounter a range of characters that challenge Joe and Ruth’s attempts at healing. The novel introduces figures such as Jim Peck, who embodies the era’s counterculture with his radical views on drugs and lifestyle, and Marian Catlin, a young woman whose innocence masks deeper complexities. Through these interactions, the book delves into the intricacies of human relationships and the impact of external chaos on personal lives. With 352 pages, this edition offers a profound look at the struggles of finding peace amidst turmoil.