In
The Lacuna, Harrison Shepherd has a Mexican mother and American father. His mother moves him about Mexico in the early 20th century as she searches for the next man to take care of them. Harrison goes years without schooling. His father pays for his education in a military school during his teenage years, until he's expelled and sent back to Mexico. Harrison becomes a baker and his hired by Diego Rivera to mix plaster for his murals. Rivera's wife, Frida Kahlo, becomes a close friend and confidant. Harrison lives with the couple, and they welcome the exiled Bolshevik Lev Trostsky into their home. After Trotsky's murder, Harrison moves to North Carolina where he becomes a famous writer of Aztec novels. His past with Trotsky and other revolutionaries brings him to the attention of the House Un-American Activities. Barbara Kingsolver's novel has received positive reviews with The Independent saying, "
The Lacuna unfolds more slowly than many of Kingsolver's previous books, but every word and twist has earned its place in this provocative and beautifully told story. The bestselling
Poisonwood Bible won Kingsolver widespread critical acclaim; this book will only add to the praise."
