Gem & Dixie

The shifting viewpoints added depth, but I wonder what inspired the choice to tell the story this way. Did it come from a desire to show both sides equally?

The honest depiction of financial hardship and sibling bonds made me reflect on my own family moments. How did the author research or draw from real life for this?

The community details felt so genuine — I’m curious whether Sara Zarr grew up in a similar place or if she crafted it from imagination.