The Constellations

Discover the poignant tale of Constellations by Kevin Cunningham, published by Cornell University Press in 2012. Set against the backdrop of 1974 in DeKalb County, Illinois, this compelling novel explores the struggles of Roy Conlon, a widowed father grappling with loss and financial hardship. As he navigates the complexities of parenthood, Roy finds himself increasingly distanced from his eight-year-old son, Eric, who becomes a mystery he cannot unravel. With powerful forces pulling them apart, Roy's attempts to connect with Eric are fraught with challenges, including his own guilt and involvement in a reckless crime. Spanning 277 pages, Constellations is a heartfelt exploration of fatherhood, loss, and the unbreakable bonds that tie us together. This fiction piece is a must-read for anyone interested in the emotional depths of familial relationships.