Crossroads

About “Crossroads”

It's December 23, 1971, in Chicago, where heavy weather is forecast. Russ Hildebrandt, an associate pastor in a liberal suburban church, is considering ending his joyless marriage, but his wife, Marion, also has a secret life. Their eldest son, Clem, is returning from college with strong moral beliefs, and his actions will deeply affect his father. Their daughter, Becky, has moved away from her past as a social queen and into the counterculture. Their younger son, Perry, who has been selling drugs to younger students, is trying to change. Each family member is searching for freedom, but their choices threaten one another. Jonathan Franzen's Crossroads explores the history of two generations through the lives of the Hildebrandt family. Set largely on a single winter day, the novel examines a Midwestern family at a moment of moral conflict. The story is told through interwoven perspectives and shows Franzen's talent for blending personal and larger societal themes.