The Serpent King (2016) by Jeff Zentner is set in a small town in rural Tennessee. The novel follows three friends: Dill, the son of a Pentecostal snake-handling minister who is grappling with his faith; Travis, a gentle giant obsessed with a fantasy series and its fandom; and Lydia, a sardonic, fashion-forward blogger ready to escape their small town. As they navigate their senior year of high school, they face their struggles and the harsh realities of life in the rural South. Together, they must confront the pains of the past and fears of the future, forging their paths and learning about friendship, love, and sacrifice.
When it was published in 2016, The Serpent King received critical acclaim from critics and audiences, making the novel an instant bestseller. In their book review, Kirkus Reviews said that "Zentner writes with understanding and grace" and that he is "a new voice to savor." The School Library Journal noted, "Thorough characterization and artful prose allow readers to intimately experience the highs and lows of these three friends."
