The River Is Waiting

Download The River Is Waiting PDF by Wally Lamb

Corby Ledbetter, a once-prosperous commercial artist and stay-at-home dad, spirals into alcoholism and prescription drug use after losing his job. In a tragic accident fueled by his impairment, he accidentally kills his young son and is sentenced to three years in prison for involuntary manslaughter. Behind bars, Corby faces brutal guards and systemic cruelty but also finds compassion and small acts of kindness—from a prison librarian who encourages his art to a caring cellmate and a troubled teen he mentors. Throughout his incarceration, Corby wrestles with guilt, grief, and whether forgiveness—both from others and himself—is ever possible. Drawing from Lamb’s extensive experience teaching in women’s prisons, the novel offers a gripping and empathetic portrait of prison life while asking powerful questions about redemption, punishment, and the endurance of human connection.