ENDUV ROAD
Based on the whimsical advice of Aunt Beaners' Ouija board, the unconventional Jackson family abruptly uproots and moves west in 1960 to Scope Ranch in Keetley, Utah, near the mountain town of Park City. Unaware that Keetley is doomed to destruction, Simmy Jackson and her kid brother, Lefty, adapt to their new rustic life.
As the siblings grow to adulthood and start families of their own, they learn the fascinating history of each of their colorful relatives, such as eccentric (and arguably criminal) Aunt Beaners, affable Uncle Arty, and the inimitable ranch hand, Charlie Spratt, who becomes the patriarch of the family. Although their adventures are equally hilarious and heartbreaking, Simmy and Lefty must reconcile love with forgiveness when they discover the shocking truth and betrayal behind their journey to Utah.
Full of laughter and pathos, Gwen Banta's "Enduv Road" is a generational saga that takes the reader on a journey from Endicott, New York during World War II to rural Utah where three neighboring towns were swallowed by the Jordanelle Reservoir in 1995. The chronicle of the Jackson family is one of unforgettable characters and compelling events - a story as rich in history as its Utah setting.
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Reviews
what people say
"Enduv Road by Gwen Banta is a delightful story. I loved it because of the quirky characters. Their behavior borders on the bizarre; their wisdom is infinite yet accurate ... and their hearts are as big as the ocean. Whatever they do, and it’s not always legal, you cannot help but warm to them; I was ready to laugh and cry with each of them. Lives are lost, marriages fail, yet close family relations shine through. Banta has a way with words that left me both smiling and in awe of her writing ... Banta's descriptions of the beauty of Utah paint beautiful pictures. A book to savor and enjoy. "
Lucinda E Clarke for Readers’ Favorite
"Enduv Road by Gwen Banta is a beautiful story ... I loved everything about it, from the character and world-building to the unique storyline and relaxed tone. Banta is a talented writer who uses witty words and humor that add flavor and authenticity to the story. It entertained and educated me; thank you for a mindful book."
Jennifer Ibiam for Readers’ Favorite
"In Gwen Banta's emotional novel, a family chronicles their origins in astonishing detail. Her storyline is simple to follow as it flows from past to present and back again in a fluid and interesting manner. The characters are a curious collection with deep backstories laced with one oddity or the other creating some excellent comic relief ... The subplots are as varied as one would expect in a dramatic tale that spans generations ... Banta deserves plaudits; Enduv Road combines interesting subplots with unusual characters to deliver a family-oriented drama to appeal to a broad audience."
Essie Asian Review