The Tigers of Lents

by Mark Pomeroy

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Pub Date Mar 28 2024 | Archive Date Mar 28 2024

University of Iowa Press | University Of Iowa Press

General Fiction (Adult) | New Adult

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Description

This is the story of the Garrison family, who live in Lents, an outer neighborhood of Portland, Oregon. At the heart of it all, there are the three Garrison sisters: Sara, the eldest, a fiery soccer star on the precipice of pulling herself out of the life of poverty she’s always known; Elaine, shy and struggling with the weight she carries both physically and mentally; and Rachel, a reader and poet whose imagination stalls at trying to picture a better life.

As the Garrisons struggle to communicate with each other, as they battle self-doubts and self-sabotage, they too draw on a fierce shared strength that allows them to push back at the reality that’s been handed to them. Each Garrison fights to hold on to their dignity—often through daily acts of grace and good humor, to say nothing of quiet perseverance—and to prove to themselves and each other that they shouldn’t be underestimated.

Advance Praise

“The Tigers of Lents is a rich exploration of class, neighborhood, and, especially, the bonds—frayed, inescapable—of a family through time. Traveling with the Garrison sisters is an emotionally fraught and rewarding experience, deepened by detailed evocation of place and time, as well as a soundtrack that ranges from the Pet Shop Boys to Ratt to Jelly Roll Morton. I believe in these people. I worry about and hope for them.”—Peter Rock, author, My Abandonment

“It’s clear that Mark Pomeroy has talent as a fiction writer and skill with language. His writing is fresh and direct. He writes very well.”—Kent Haruf, author, Plainsong

“Emotional and detailed, a slice of life and deep exploration of place, The Tigers of Lents is an exciting read you won’t want to miss.”—Active Media Publishing, The Mountain Times

Available Editions

EDITION	Other Format
ISBN	9781609389376
PRICE	$19.95 (USD)
PAGES	234

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Additional Information

Average rating from 3 members

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Featured Reviews

Stephanie D, Reviewer

am a fan of family drama and stories of sisters and coming of age…this is a little of all of those things

Thanks to Netgalley for the free advanced copy in exchange for an honest review

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ASHLEY H, Reviewer

"The Tigers of Lents" by Mark Pomeroy is a poignant and deeply moving story that follows the lives of the Garrison family, particularly focusing on the three Garrison sisters: Sara, Elaine, and Rachel. Set in Lents, an outer neighborhood of Portland, Oregon, the novel explores themes of poverty, family dynamics, and the resilience of the human spirit.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its well-developed characters, particularly the Garrison sisters, who are portrayed with depth and complexity. Sara, the eldest, is determined to break free from the cycle of poverty, while Elaine struggles with her self-image and Rachel finds solace in literature. Their individual journeys are compelling and relatable, making them easy to empathize with.

Pomeroy's writing is emotive and evocative, drawing readers into the world of the Garrisons and the challenges they face. The portrayal of Lents as a vibrant yet struggling community adds authenticity to the story, highlighting the socio-economic issues that many face.

While the novel tackles heavy themes, such as poverty and self-doubt, it is ultimately a story of resilience and hope. The Garrisons' ability to find strength in each other and in themselves is inspiring, and their journey is a testament to the power of family and perseverance.

Overall, "The Tigers of Lents" is a beautifully written novel that offers a poignant portrayal of family, resilience, and the human spirit. Pomeroy's storytelling is engaging and heartfelt, making this a book that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an advanced copy to review for my honest opinion.