A Town with Half the Lights On: A Novel by Page Getz – A Delightful Journey to Find Home
From the moment I laid eyes on A Town with Half the Lights On by Page Getz, I felt a magnetic pull towards its quirky premise: a family of imperfect Brooklynites navigating life in small-town Kansas through a series of emails, letters, and journal entries. I’ve always had a soft spot for stories about outsiders trying to carve a niche in new environments, especially those where the heart of the narrative lies within the settings and the relationships built therein. As the reader, I was excited to uncover how Sid Solvang and his family would tackle their unexpected journey.
Set in the charming yet struggle-riddled town of Goodnight, Kansas, the novel weaves together the lives of several endearing characters. Sid, a chef with New York ambitions, is uprooted by circumstances beyond his control, and his daughter Harlem grapples with family legacies and the echoes of her grandfather’s cryptic messages. Notably, when Sid impulsively purchases the iconic May Day Diner—threatened by the wrecking ball—it sets them on a path of self-discovery, quirky friendships, and a fight for community ties.
One of the things that struck me most was the epistolary format, which initially felt a bit jarring but ultimately added a layer of intimacy and affordance—as if I was eavesdropping on heartfelt conversations and spontaneous thoughts. The characters’ distinct voices shine through their written words, making them feel vibrantly alive. Disco, the “wayward glitter girl,” and Harlem’s restless spirit contribute to an ensemble that is both flawed and charming, creating a delightful tapestry rich with humor and poignancy.
The town itself practically becomes a character, bustling with idiosyncrasies that reflect its inhabitants. The narrative explores big themes—home, belonging, and the importance of community—as the Solvangs navigate small-town dynamics and the struggles of revitalizing their new home. I found myself chuckling over the eccentricities of the local residents and longing for biscuits from the May Day Diner, which felt like a symbol of hope and nostalgia.
One standout line that resonated with me was about home: “Family isn’t just your relatives, and it’s almost never easy to find the courage to do what’s right.” It encapsulates the essence of the book beautifully, reminding us that love and community often come from the most unexpected places.
As I turned the final page, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own experiences of feeling out of place and discovering my identities in different spaces. This book is a testament to second chances and the power of embracing the unknown.
I wholeheartedly recommend A Town with Half the Lights On to anyone who cherishes stories rich in character development and heart. It’s a tale for those who believe in the magic of small towns, the resilience of family, and the extraordinary journeys that sometimes begin in the most unlikely of circumstances. Page Getz has crafted a delightful debut that is sure to resonate with fans of quirky, heartfelt fiction. Grab a cozy blanket, a cup of your favorite tea, and immerse yourself in the charm of Goodnight, Kansas—you might just find a piece of your own story nestled within.
You can find A Town with Half the Lights On: A Novel here >>