Engaging with History: A Reflection on News of the World by Paulette Jiles
I have to admit, I’m a bit late to the party on this one, but I’m so grateful that I finally picked up News of the World by Paulette Jiles. Initially, I hesitated to read it, believing it was little more than another rendition of True Grit, where a cantankerous old man takes on the care of a tough young girl. That misconception kept me at bay, but oh, how wrong I was! This novel is not just a retread of familiar territory; it’s a heartfelt journey that drew me in from the very first page.
Set in 1870, as America wrestles with the shadows of its recent Civil War, News of the World introduces us to Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd, an elderly widower and veteran who now earns his living reading newspapers to eager audiences across Texas. His life takes a dramatic turn when he’s tasked with escorting Johanna, a ten-year-old girl who has been raised by the Kiowa after losing her family. Simply put, the characterization and emotional depth Jiles managed to craft left me in awe.
The relationship between Kidd and Johanna is the novel’s cornerstone. Their journey through Texas isn’t just a physical one but a profound exploration of trust, belonging, and understanding. I found myself rooting for both characters, as their connection grows amidst the perils of their landscape. It’s incredibly moving—especially when we consider Kidd’s internal struggle. He knows he must deliver Johanna to relatives she has never known, but he cannot help feeling a strong paternal instinct toward her. One memorable quote encapsulates this tension: "More than ever knowing in his fragile bones that it was the duty of men who aspired to the condition of humanity to protect children and kill for them if necessary." It’s a stark reminder of the weight these characters carry on their shoulders.
Jiles’ writing is beautifully evocative, painting rich imagery of the Texas landscape while maintaining a suspenseful pace. I was consistently surprised by the slight tension woven throughout their journey, making it difficult to set the book down. Even more fascinating was Kidd’s unique profession—reading news articles in a time before instant information. I found myself enchanted by the idea of gathering a community together through stories from distant lands, something incredibly poignant given today’s media landscape.
While I generally approach historical fiction with caution, Jiles’ storytelling—rich with heart, simplicity, and even a touch of poetry—won me over completely. If you’ve not yet taken this book to heart, do yourself a favor and experience it; the characters, with all their struggles and growth, will stay with you long after the final page.
To those who enjoy character-driven narratives steeped in compassion and historical nuance, I wholeheartedly recommend News of the World. It’s a book that resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the universal search for connection and home. I’m glad I finally stepped into Jiles’ world—I can only hope you will too!
For more reflections on my reading adventures, be sure to check out my blog at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
