Patrick Ryan's novel "Buckeye" is an American family tree

Patrick Ryan’s novel Buckeye explores the intertwined lives of two families in the small town of Bonhomie, Ohio, during a period spanning from the 1940s to the late 1970s. The book, translated into German by Thomas Überhoff and published by Park X Ullstein, delves into themes of war, identity, and personal loss through the lens of two interconnected families whose fates become irrevocably linked. The title refers both to the American buckeye tree, native to Ohio, and to the nickname given to one of the characters, Skip, for his friend Tom. The story unfolds against the backdrop of three major wars, World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War, each leaving its mark on the men of these families in different ways. The narrative begins with Skip, whose father, Cal, is physically disabled due to a shorter leg, which rendered him unfit for military service during World War II. Cal's father, Everett, is a veteran of World War I and a prolific letter writer who regularly sends correspondence to presidents and ministers, attempting to dissuade them from sending young men to war. Cal’s wife, Becky, finds solace in her husband’s absence, allowing her more time for séances, though she is also troubled by his frequent absences as he volunteers in civil defense roles. Meanwhile, Tom’s parents, Margaret and Felix, face their own set of challenges. Margaret was abandoned as a baby and has never told anyone, while Felix harbors a secret that would have been unthinkable to reveal during wartime. Unlike Cal, Felix is deemed fit for combat, setting the stage for events that will alter both families forever. Ryan’s novel spans decades, tracing the impact of war on individuals and relationships over generations. The author skillfully weaves together moments of humor with profound emotional depth, capturing the disconnection and eventual reconciliation among the characters. The book’s structure allows readers to follow the lives of these families as they navigate the aftermath of war, personal betrayals, and the search for meaning in a changing world. The historical context of each conflict is interwoven with the personal stories of the characters, creating a layered narrative that reflects the broader societal shifts of the era. The setting of Bonhomie, Ohio, plays a crucial role in the novel. As the birthplace of the buckeye tree, the town symbolizes both resilience and the deep roots of American history. The name “Buckeye” itself becomes a metaphor for the enduring legacy of war and the complex identities of those affected by it. The small-town atmosphere adds to the sense of intimacy and isolation felt by the characters, particularly as they grapple with the consequences of their choices and the secrets they carry. Patrick Ryan’s storytelling is marked by a keen attention to detail and a nuanced portrayal of human emotions. His depiction of the characters' internal struggles is complemented by a dry wit that provides moments of levity amid the heavier themes of loss and trauma. For instance, the description of Felix’s limited sexual imagination is delivered with a touch of irony, highlighting the absurdities of human behavior even in the face of profound adversity. This balance between humor and gravity gives the novel a unique tone that resonates throughout its pages. The novel has drawn comparisons to potential film adaptations, with some suggesting that actor Tom Hanks, a known admirer of the work, could bring the character of Everett to life on screen. Such speculation underscores the visual and emotional richness of the story, which lends itself well to cinematic interpretation. However, the novel stands on its own as a compelling literary achievement, offering readers a deeply immersive experience that lingers long after the final page is turned.