Description

 My Life as a Rat

“New York Times Bestselling Author”

Family is often considered the cornerstone of our lives, but what happens when the truth threatens to shatter that foundation? My Life as a Rat explores the complex and painful reality of loyalty to family versus loyalty to the truth.

Violet Rue Kerrigan’s story is a powerful reminder that telling the truth can come at a great cost, but so can lying for the sake of family.

As we follow Violet’s journey, we see the devastating consequences of her decision to speak out against her brothers. Her testimony leads to their arrests and convictions, but it also leads to her banishment from her family and community.

The novel raises important questions about the nature of justice, the power of family ties, and the difficult choices we must make when faced with the truth.

My Life as a Rat is a deeply moving and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of family relationships and the consequences of speaking the truth. It is a powerful reminder that sometimes doing the right thing can come at a great cost, but that ultimately, it is our sense of self and integrity that must guide us. Violet’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of redemption, even in the face of great adversity.

About The Author

Joyce Carol Oates, a prolific writer, has an impressive body of work that spans across various genres. With over 70 books under her belt, she has showcased her talent in novels, short story collections, poetry volumes, plays, essays, and criticism. Her literary prowess is evident in her national bestsellers, such as “We Were the Mulvaneys” and “Blonde.” Oates has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the prestigious PEN/Malamud Award for Excellence in Short Fiction and the esteemed National Book Award.

Not only is Oates a celebrated author, but she also holds a distinguished position as the Roger S. Berlind Distinguished Professor of the Humanities at Princeton University. Her expertise and passion for literature have made her an invaluable member of the academic community. Additionally, Oates has been recognized for her contributions to the arts and letters, as she has been a member of the esteemed American Academy of Arts and Letters since 1978. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to education have solidified her status as a respected figure in the literary world.

“Joyce Carol Oates…is simply the most consistently inventive, brilliant, curious, and creative writer going, as far as I’m concerned.”

-Gillian Flynn

“Oates’s writing has always seemed effortless: urgent, unafraid, torrential. She writes like a woman who walks into rough country and doesn’t look back.”-New York Times Book Review

“A writer of extraordinary strengths…[who] has dealt consistently with what is probably the great American theme quest for the creation of self…Her great subject, naturally, is love.”-The Guardian (UK)

“Oates is a giant among us…thoroughly wonderful and important.”-NPR Books

“A master of sharp dialogue and vibrant descriptions, Oates cast a powerful spell.”-People