Storming Heaven by Denise Giardina is a historical novel set in West Virginia during the late 1800s and early 1900s, focusing on the forced displacement of farming families by coal companies, the dangerous working conditions of coal miners, and their attempts to unionize, which culminates in a massive strike and the Battle of Blair Mountain, as recounted by the four main characters: C. J. Marcum, Rondal Lloyd, Carrie Bishop, and Rosa Angelelli. The book depicts violence, labor struggles, and personal and communal tragedies.

Storming Heaven by Denise Giardina has been praised for its evocative portrayal of the coal miners' struggles in early 20th-century West Virginia. Reviewers commend Giardina’s rich characterization and historical accuracy, though some critics note a slow narrative pace. Despite this, the novel’s emotional depth and social commentary make it a compelling read.

Fans of gritty historical novels like The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck and Germinal by Émile Zola will be captivated by Denise Giardina’s Storming Heaven. This reader appreciates richly detailed narratives centered around social justice, labor struggles, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Gritty / Challenging / Inspirational / Emotional / Suspenseful

- Storming Heaven by Denise Giardina was awarded the prestigious W.D. Weatherford Award in 1987 for its significant contribution to Appalachian literature.
- Giardina's novel draws heavily from real events and historical figures, such as the Battle of Blair Mountain, one of the largest labor uprisings in American history.
- The author, Denise Giardina, is not only a novelist but also an ordained deacon in the Episcopal Church, influencing the spiritual and moral themes in her writings.

**Rondal Lloyd**  
The son of a coal miner who originally leaves school to work in the mines but becomes deeply involved in union organization, facing significant risks for his involvement.

**Carrie Bishop**  
A romantic and resilient woman who grows up in Kentucky, becomes a nurse, and is a strong supporter of the miners' union due to her exposure to poor working conditions.

**C. J. Marcum**  
Initially working at a drugstore, he becomes involved in local politics and union organization, deeply caring for Rondal and collaborating on a socialist newspaper.

**Rosa Angelelli**  
An immigrant from Sicily who endures personal tragedy, working in West Virginia and maintaining her Catholic faith amidst her hardships.

**Doc Booker**  
A black doctor known for overcoming racial discrimination to treat miners, he is influential in socialist circles and has a professional connection with Carrie.

**Albion Freeman**  
A pastor with unconventional views who values dance and wine, he marries Carrie and is involved in the coal miners' union efforts.

**Miles Bishop**  
Carrie's older brother, who becomes a coal mine superintendent and frequently clashes with Carrie over the union strike, siding with business interests.

**Ermel Justice**  
A wealthy land and business owner in West Virginia, he retains control over his property despite coal company pressures and has influence with local officials.

**Isom Justice**  
The son of Ermel Justice and Rondal’s best friend, he is known for frequenting gambling halls and brothels, eventually marrying into C. J.’s family.

**Talcott Lloyd**  
Rondal's younger brother, who works in the coal mines and serves in the army, displaying toughness and a willingness to confront authority figures.

Denise Giardina

Adult

Novel

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Storming Heaven Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Storming Heaven Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 5-8

Storming Heaven Part 1, Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Parts 2-3, Chapters 9-12

Storming Heaven Parts 2-3, Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 13-16

Storming Heaven Part 3, Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

Parts 3-4, Chapters 17-20

Storming Heaven Parts 3-4, Chapters 17-20 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 21-24

Storming Heaven Part 4, Chapters 21-24 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapter 25-Afterword

Storming Heaven Part 4, Chapter 25-Afterword Summary & Analysis

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Storming Heaven Character Analysis

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Storming Heaven Important Quotes

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Storming Heaven

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