Honors Theses

Like Grass: A Novel

Advisor

Dr. Masha Kisel and Dr. William Trollinger

Department

English

Publication Date

4-22-2026

Document Type

Honors Thesis

Abstract

Like Grass is a historical fiction novel primarily set in 1910s Cincinnati, Ohio. Its central themes are cultural pluralism and the embracing of differences. Though it is a work of historical fiction, it implicitly comments on our current polarized society, arguing that the past is relevant to navigating the present, and advocating for justice, understanding, unity and peace. By translating academic research into a creative medium, it seeks to reach a broad audience and thus heighten the research’s impact. The book prompts readers to think deeply and to empathize, aspiring to contribute to a complicated yet fascinating and timely conversation: what does it mean to be American?

I drew upon my studies in English and the CORE program, particularly of social justice issues and the power of literature in addressing them, to accomplish this work. Alongside studying models of fiction-writing, to ground the plot in realism, I conducted extensive research on the early twentieth century and each major setting: New York City, the Black Forest in Germany, North Carolina, and Cincinnati. I sought knowledge of micro-level details (architecture, fashion, food, furniture styles, and dialects) as well as the overall political atmosphere of the time through investigation of primary sources (photographs, maps, letters and oral history accounts) and secondary sources (academic articles, books and documentaries). By doing so, I aimed to craft a world which readers can envision themselves within, heightening their empathy and building awareness of historic issues – which enables consideration of these issues’ perpetuation in our contemporary America.

Permission Statement

This item is protected by copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code) and may only be used for noncommercial, educational, and scholarly purposes.

Keywords

Undergraduate research

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