Staff Reports
In the picturesque town of Cedarberg, Wisconsin, excitement is in the air—a new novel called *Purple State* has made its debut, and its author, Dana Pino, finds herself back in the charming community that inspired her writing journey. The connection between Cedarberg and Pino’s novel is as strong as the roots of the town itself, which has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s. While Pino hails from the rugged landscapes of Wyoming and Colorado, her whirlwind two-day visit to Cedarberg two years ago marked a transformative moment that would guide her muse into the world of fiction.
The quaint scenery of Cedarberg, featuring the lovely Cedar Creek and a historic mill, struck a chord with Pino. It was the last stop on her discovery tour of Wisconsin, and the magic of that summer afternoon lit a spark of inspiration. Surrounded by the vibrance of small-town life, where neighbors chatted amiably without a mention of politics, Pino realized she had found the perfect backdrop for her story. So began her journey of writing *Purple State*, a book that explores life beyond the political noise, focusing on the beauty of human connection and community.
Central to the narrative are three young women who leave the bustle of Manhattan for Cedarberg, where they encounter the Taylor family farm. Their experiences not only introduce them to the challenges and beauty of farm life but also highlight the generational pressures faced by American farmers today. Through the character of Mary, a hotshot lawyer from Staten Island, readers witness her struggle to save the Taylor farm while also learning about the ever-present threat of eminent domain, a shadow that looms large over rural America. As these characters navigate their personal journeys, they discover that listening and understanding are far more valuable than securing political points.
Interestingly, the novel delves into the theme of friendship across political divides, challenging the often-oversimplified narrative that polarization reigns supreme in America. In fact, Cedarberg is a “purple town”—a place where Democrats and Republicans can share a meal, celebrate community events, and enjoy life together despite their differences. Pino’s tome emphasizes that personal relationships often surpass political affiliation, echoing the sentiment that at the heart of every community is the desire for connection and camaraderie.
The author’s choice to depict small-town America alongside the fast-paced lifestyle of New York City captures the essence of what many Americans long for today—a sense of belonging and community spirit. Cedarberg, with its myriad of festivals, bookshops, and friendly faces, provides the perfect canvas for exploring how friendships can bloom when forged in understanding and empathy. Pino skillfully crafts her characters’ journeys, encouraging readers to ponder their own relationships and the society in which they live.
As readers dip into the world of *Purple State*, they are not just following a political narrative; they are embarking on an emotional journey that stitches together love, friendship, and the very essence of being human in a complex world. Whether lounging by the pool or cozying up at home, readers will find themselves deeply engaged in this novel—a testament to the power of storytelling and the beauty of community, especially in a town like Cedarberg, Wisconsin, where life continues to flourish amidst an ever-evolving world.
