If you haven't read this book, you're missing out on a part of yourself you don't know yet. I couldn't tell you what I love most about this book, considering I read it every day. House managed to reach to a part inside of everyone when he talks about childhood, and reminds us all how precious that time in our lives was or is. My personal copy is autographed, and I treasure it dearly. The relationships are what brings the most truth to it, between Eli and everyone from his scary father, to his true best friend. The book is set in 1976, the year of the bicentennial of America. Eli, a 10 year old boy growing up in Eastern Kentucky is the son of a man who fought in the Vietnam War, with a different mindset than anyone around him. House tells you about that summer, it's laughter, heartache, and endless longing. If you ever feel like you don't know who you really are yet, then read Eli the Good. It will change your life.