Storytelling as a Tool for Highlighting Social Issues

Barbara King-Solver discusses her book 'Demon Copperhead' as a recasting of Charles Dickens' 'David Copperfield' that tells the story of a boy growing up in modern Appalachia. The book explores the impact of the opioid epidemic on the community and the historical exploitation of the region by big capital. King-Solver wanted to shed light on the orphans of the epidemic and the lack of support they receive, pointing out the institutional poverty and cultural suppression they face. She draws inspiration from Dickens' approach of using point of view and believes that storytelling with strong characters and a compelling plot is crucial to grab readers' attention.