The novel “Raintree County” by Ross Lockridge Jr. is set in a small Indiana town during the 19th century. It follows the life of John Wickliff Shawnessy, a poet and schoolteacher whose experiences reflect the broader changes in America before, during, and after the Civil War.
The story weaves moments from his personal life with significant historical events, showcasing his relationships, struggles, and search for meaning.
“The Magnificent Ambersons” by Booth Tarkington tells the story of the decline of a wealthy Midwestern family during the rise of industrialization.
The novel focuses on George Amberson Minafer, a spoiled young man whose arrogance and sense of entitlement clash with the changing world around him.
Set in a small Indiana town, the book follows George as his family’s fortunes fade and he struggles with love, pride, and the consequences of his actions.
The book “The Circus in Winter” by Cathy Day tells the interconnected stories of people tied to a small Indiana town that once served as a winter home for a traveling circus.
Through its chapters, you meet performers, workers, and townspeople whose lives intersect with the remnants of the circus, from the elephant trainer to a young woman learning about her family’s hidden past.
The imagery of the circus and the way it changes the town’s identity makes the setting memorable.
“The Hoosier Schoolmaster” by Edward Eggleston is about a young schoolteacher named Ralph Hartsook, who takes a job in a small Indiana town. The story follows his challenges as he navigates local conflicts, deals with unruly students, and tries to win over the community.
There’s a mix of humor and drama in the way Ralph handles accusations of theft and his growing feelings for Hannah, a kind and clever young woman. The book paints a vivid picture of rural Indiana life in the 19th century.
John Green wrote “The Fault in Our Stars,” a story about two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, who meet in a cancer support group. Hazel has a sharp sense of humor, and Gus brings an optimistic charm to her world.
The book follows their relationship as they explore love and loss, sharing moments of joy and heartbreak that feel both tender and real. Their journey takes them from Indiana to Amsterdam, where they search for answers tied to a novel that deeply impacted Hazel.
“All the Bright Places” by Jennifer Niven focuses on two teens, Finch and Violet, who meet on the ledge of their school’s bell tower. Both are struggling in their own ways but form a unique bond as they set out on a journey to discover the hidden wonders of Indiana.
The story follows their growing connection while exploring themes of mental health and personal loss.
Jessamyn West wrote “The Friendly Persuasion,” a novel about the life of a Quaker family in 19th-century Indiana. It follows Jess Birdwell, his wife Eliza, and their children as they navigate the challenges of their faith, family life, and the world around them.
The book paints a vivid picture of rural Indiana, with moments that highlight both the humor and struggles of everyday life. It also explores how the family’s pacifist beliefs are tested during the time of the Civil War.
“Turtles All the Way Down” by John Green follows Aza Holmes, a teenager wrestling with obsessive thoughts while trying to solve a local mystery. When a billionaire goes missing, Aza and her friend Daisy search for answers, leading them into unexpected situations.
The story balances Aza’s internal struggles with her relationships, offering a glimpse into her world.
“Freckles” by Gene Stratton-Porter tells the story of a young man who works as a guard in a beautiful Indiana forest known as the Limberlost. Orphaned and missing one hand, he is determined to prove his worth and find a place in the world.
As he protects the forest from timber thieves, he forms a bond with the local wildlife and meets a girl called the Swamp Angel, who changes his life forever. The novel is filled with vivid descriptions of the Limberlost and explores themes of self-discovery and resilience.
Leah Johnson wrote “You Should See Me in a Crown,” a heartwarming story about Liz Lighty, a Black queer teen from a small Indiana town. Liz dreams of attending an elite college to escape her town but needs to win the prom queen scholarship to afford it.
As she navigates the competitive world of prom, she faces unexpected friendships, harsh judgments, and a budding romance that might change everything. The book captures the challenges and joys of being true to yourself in a place that doesn’t always understand you.
“The Mighty Miss Malone” by Christopher Paul Curtis tells the story of Deza Malone, a smart and resourceful girl living in Indiana during the Great Depression.
Deza’s family faces hard times after her father goes missing, and they embark on a journey to reunite and find stability. Along the way, she shows her strength and determination while navigating poverty, segregation, and the challenges of growing up.
Deza’s perspective gives a heartfelt look at a family’s struggle and love during tough times.
“Teen Idol” by Meg Cabot is about Jenny Greenley, a high school junior who is known for being a great listener and advice giver. She’s secretly the anonymous columnist for the school paper, helping classmates with their problems.
When a famous teen heartthrob goes undercover at her school to prepare for a movie role, Jenny is tasked with keeping his identity a secret, which turns her world upside down. The story blends high school drama with moments of self-discovery for Jenny.
“Terre Haute” by Will Aitken follows the lives of two college friends, Matt and Chloe, as they reunite in a small Indiana town. Their reunion becomes a mix of nostalgia and tension as they confront their shared past and secrets they’ve buried.
The story explores their relationship, touching on themes of identity and the way personal history shapes who we become.
“The Rabbit Hutch” by Tess Gunty revolves around the lives of residents in a dilapidated apartment complex in a fictional Indiana town. The story focuses on Blandine, a young woman who has aged out of foster care and is searching for meaning in her life.
The novel weaves together the struggles, secrets, and connections of the people living in the building, painting a vivid picture of their experiences and the town’s atmosphere.
The book “Running Out of Time” by Margaret Peterson Haddix follows a girl named Jessie, who grows up in what seems like a 19th-century village in Indiana.
When a mysterious illness spreads, Jessie learns her world is actually a modern tourist site, and she must leave to find help. Her journey from the isolated village into the real world is full of twists that keep the story tense and surprising.