Paulette Jiles

Paulette Jiles is an American poet, memoirist, and novelist. She is known for her historical novels, including 'News of the World,' which was a finalist for the National Book Award.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. News Of The World

    In the aftermath of the Civil War, an aging itinerant news reader agrees to transport a young girl, who was kidnapped and raised by the Kiowa tribe, back to her biological aunt and uncle. Throughout their perilous journey across the harsh Texas landscape, the pair face myriad dangers and form an unlikely bond. The news reader, with his deep sense of honor and compassion, navigates the challenges of the lawless territory while helping the girl come to terms with her reclaimed identity and the memories of her past. Their shared experiences forge a relationship that transcends the divides of culture and language, reflecting the potential for understanding and healing in a fractured world.

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  2. 2. North Spirit

    Travels Among the Cree and Ojibway Nations and Their Star Maps

    Set against the backdrop of the rugged Canadian wilderness, this memoir chronicles the transformative journey of a young woman who leaves the comforts of urban life to teach in a remote northern community. Through vivid storytelling, she captures the beauty and challenges of her new surroundings, the resilience of the people she meets, and the profound impact of nature on her spirit. As she navigates the harsh winters and isolation, she discovers a deeper understanding of herself and the world around her, ultimately finding a sense of belonging in the vast, untamed landscape.

  3. 3. Simon The Fiddler

    Set in the aftermath of the American Civil War, the story follows a young, talented fiddler who is conscripted into the Confederate army. After the war, he embarks on a journey across Texas, driven by his passion for music and a longing to reunite with a captivating Irish governess he met during his service. As he travels with a ragtag band of musicians, he encounters the challenges of a nation in recovery, the complexities of love, and the pursuit of dreams in a world marked by uncertainty and change.

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