BOOK BRIEF

The Voice at the Back Door

Elizabeth Spencer
Guide cover placeholder

The Voice at the Back Door

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Elizabeth Spencer

The Voice at the Back Door

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Details
Pages

367

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mississippi • 1950s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Voice at the Back Door by Elizabeth Spencer explores a Southern community in the mid-20th century grappling with racial tensions and political change. The narrative follows a sheriff candidate as he navigates complex social dynamics and power struggles in a town deeply divided along racial lines, highlighting themes of justice and moral integrity.

Mysterious

Emotional

Contemplative

Challenging

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.1

345 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The Voice at the Back Door by Elizabeth Spencer is lauded for its evocative depiction of Southern life and complex characters. Critics praise its narrative depth and rich prose. However, some note its pacing issues and dense themes that may deter casual readers. Overall, it is a thought-provoking exploration of racial and societal dynamics in the South.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Voice at the Back Door?

A reader who enjoys The Voice at the Back Door by Elizabeth Spencer likely appreciates Southern Gothic tales with intricate character studies and moral complexity. Fans of William Faulkner's As I Lay Dying or Eudora Welty's The Optimist's Daughter would be drawn to this atmospheric exploration of race and politics in the 1950s South.

4.1

345 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

367

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mississippi • 1950s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!