Episode Overview

In this episode, TS analyzes Barbara Kingsolver's award-winning novel Demon Copperhead, a modern reimagining of Charles Dickens' David Copperfield set in Appalachia during the opioid crisis. This Pulitzer Prize and Women's Prize-winning bestseller follows a red-headed boy born to a teenage mother as he navigates poverty, foster care, addiction, and ultimately finds his voice through art.

Key Topics Covered

• The premise and characters of Demon Copperhead


• Parallels to Charles Dickens' David Copperfield


• The portrayal of the opioid crisis in Appalachian communities


• The foster care system and its failures


• Demon's compelling narrative voice and sardonic humor


• Structural and symbolic elements that could be improved


• The power of art as a means of processing trauma


• Craft discussion: Kingsolver's exposition techniques and character development

Timestamps

• 10:55 - Spoiler Warning & Detailed Analysis Begins

Drink Pairing

The Copperhead - A simple but impactful drink inspired by Demon's copper-colored hair and Appalachian roots.

Alcoholic version:

• 2 oz bourbon


• 1 oz apple cider


• Splash of cinnamon syrup


• Garnish with apple slice

Non-alcoholic version:

• 2 oz apple cider


• 1 oz ginger ale


• Dash of cinnamon


• Garnish with apple slice

Next Up

Coming soon: Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro

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