description Montana 1948 Overview
Montana 1948 is a 1993 novella by American author Larry Watson, set in the fictional town of Bentrock, Montana. The story is narrated by David Hayden, who recounts events from the summer of 1948 when his father, the local sheriff, investigated allegations of sexual assault against his uncle Frank, a respected war hero. The novel explores themes of family loyalty, justice, and racial prejudice directed at Sioux community members. Watson taught creative writing at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point and published the novella through Milkweed Editions.
insights Ranking position
Montana 1948 ranks #10 of 211 in the Western Novel ranking, behind Lord Grizzly, ahead of My Antonia.
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Who wrote the novel Montana 1948?
Montana 1948 is a 1993 novella written by American author Larry Watson. It is widely considered his masterpiece and is frequently taught in American high school and college literature courses.
What is the main plot of the book Montana 1948?
The story follows a young narrator named David Hayden, who recounts the summer of 1948 when his father, the local sheriff, investigated allegations of sexual assault. The prime suspect is David's uncle, Frank Hayden, a respected war hero and local doctor.
Where does the story of Montana 1948 take place?
The novella is set in the fictional, rural town of Bentrock, Montana. The harsh, isolated environment plays a critical role in the story's themes of family loyalty, justice, and the dying days of the American frontier.
What award did the book Montana 1948 win?
Montana 1948 won the Milkweed National Fiction Prize when it was published in 1993. The novel went on to sell over a million copies, largely propelled by strong word-of-mouth recommendations.
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