When the English Fall by David Williams

I enjoyed WHEN THE ENGLISH FALL by David Williams even though this is a novel about truly hard times due to a solar storm and resulting disruption in power sources and modern life. Williams’ debut novel is extremely well-written, taking the unique perspective of an Amish farmer, Jacob. In his diary, Jacob describes seeing planes fall from the sky and subsequent fires.  He details the work of the farm, the hardships and food shortages faced by the English (his “modern” neighbors) and his own crisis of faith about the amount of aid and to whom it should be given.  His comments are often peaceful and reflective: “I could see, here and there, a whisper of yellow in the leaves of the big oak near the gate.  Not much yet, just a hint, like the first speckle of pepper gray in a man’s beard.” 

Jacob chronicles events as the situation worsens, food becomes even more scarce and violence increases. A National Guardsman tells him, “It’s like the world just came to an end. … Only we’re all still here.” WHEN THE ENGLISH FALL also offers insight on the relationships between Jacob and his family (his father, his wife Hannah and children Sadie and Jacob) and his friends – both Amish and English. Clearly, Jacob is a thoughtful, hard-working man who is looked upon for wisdom and leadership, which he accepts reluctantly: “This is part of the greatest danger to our souls, a pride that can come when we set ourselves apart to be servants, but then assume that our servanthood makes us better.”  

WHEN THE ENGLISH FALL received well-deserved starred reviews from Kirkus and Library Journal.