Join Sarah on the latest episode of the GSMC Book Review Podcast as she chats with C.H. Hooks about his gritty and evocative novel, Can’t Shake the Dust. Set against the backdrop of Southern backroads and dirt tracks, this story follows "Little" Bill Lemon, III, a man caught between the weight of his family’s shadowed past and the hope of a brighter future. From the Monkey Palace—his grandfather's infamous bar—to the chaos of dirt track racing, Little’s world is filled with raw, unflinching truths about resilience, survival, and the pursuit of redemption.
Hooks masterfully captures the essence of the South, exploring themes of legacy, scarcity, and the indomitable human spirit. During the interview, Sarah and Hooks discuss the inspiration behind Little’s journey, the significance of Southern culture in the narrative, and how the dirt track becomes a symbol of both escape and confrontation. They also touch on the raw emotional truths Hooks unearths, leaving readers cheering for Little, even as he teeters on the edge of self-destruction.
Whether you’re a fan of richly drawn characters, stories about overcoming life’s toughest challenges, or an exploration of complex family dynamics, this episode offers a fascinating look into a novel that roars to life with heart and grit.
Tune in now for a conversation that will leave you reflecting on the power of resilience and the beauty of racing against the odds. Don’t miss it!
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