KH: I notice in the book the poorer areas are downtrodden, but the rich summer folk are taking a decent run at poor too. Which “side of the river” do you feel the most affection and affinity for, both in your writing and in your travels? Or do you feel divided?

NG: Well, you know, between the flush summer people on Walt’s side of the river and the chronically poor people on the Dunning side, you have Amber’s house at the mouth of the river, which is an example of the middle class. I’d say that’s where my perspective comes from. It gives you insights into the extremes on either side.