David Joy (author)

David Joy is an American author known for his Southern Appalachian fiction, characterized by themes of poverty, addiction, violence, and the struggle for survival in the rural landscape of western North Carolina.

Joy's writing is often praised for its authentic voice, vivid descriptions of the Appalachian region, and complex characters grappling with difficult circumstances. He is considered a prominent voice in contemporary Southern literature.

Works:

• Where All Light Tends to Go (2015): A debut novel exploring the opioid crisis through the story of Jacob McNeely, caught in the cycle of dealing drugs for his father.

• The Weight of This World (2017): A novel focusing on the relationship between a grandfather and grandson, delving into themes of family, addiction, and redemption.

• The Line That Held Us (2018): A novel exploring the consequences of a hunting accident and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters.

• When These Mountains Move (2020): A collection of short stories portraying the lives and hardships of people in the Appalachian mountains.

• Those We Thought We Knew (2023): A novel about loss, memory, and the unexpected connections that bind us together.

Awards and Recognition:

David Joy's works have received numerous accolades, including:

• The SIBA Southern Book Prize
• The Pat Conroy Southern Book Prize
• Finalist for the Edgar Award