This Other Eden

This Other Eden by Paul Harding is a lyrical historical novel inspired by the true story of Malaga Island, a racially mixed community off the coast of Maine. Set in the early twentieth century, the novel follows the isolated residents of Apple Island, descendants of former slaves, Irish immigrants, and other outsiders who have built a fragile but deeply connected community away from the prejudices of the mainland.

As outside forces begin to intrude, the islanders face growing scrutiny from government officials influenced by the racist ideas of eugenics. At the center of the story is the Honey family and a young boy whose artistic talent attracts the attention of a mainland schoolteacher, setting in motion events that threaten the survival of the entire community.

Written in poetic, luminous prose, This Other Eden explores themes of belonging, dignity, resilience, and the destructive power of intolerance. Both heartbreaking and deeply humane, the novel paints a vivid portrait of a marginalized community fighting to preserve its way of life against forces determined to erase it.