If this isn't one of the Great American Novels, I'm not sure why not. It's an epic family saga. It's huge in its scope and its challenge, and in its impact.

I think I may prefer[b:The River Why|23196|The River Why|David James Duncan|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1167391170s/23196.jpg|993607] by the same author, but both are fantastic novels. This is more grand; Why is more philosophical.

I'll reread this one more than once (as I have with Why). Highly recommended.