01
Why it matters
Gordon makes claiming races a vivid study of luck, labor, and predation.
A celebrated work
Lord of Misrule
Jaimy Gordon2010 selection · Literary fiction
Lord of Misrule
At a failing West Virginia racetrack, horsemen, grooms, gamblers, and hustlers converge around four races. A newcomer’s ambition collides with dangerous bargains.
02
Read this if…
You want gritty, voice-heavy fiction about racing and outsiders.
03
Ideas inside
horse racinglucklaborambition
Get or borrow
Continue with this book.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. Editorial selections are independent.
Further reading
Read the critics
Independent reviews and criticism from established publications. Links open at the original outlet.
Primary record
Verify the selection
Every inclusion traces back to the organization that made the selection.
National Book Award for Fiction — official winner recordOfficial record↗ (opens in a new tab)