I'll Never Get Out of This World Alive

I'll Never Get Out of This World Alive (2011) by Steve Earle. Doc, a washed-up, disbarred doctor who has given his life over to his drug addiction, is haunted by the ghost of Hank Williams. He is also possessed by the spirit of Graciela, a young Mexican immigrant who seems to have miraculous powers of healing. When Graciela comes into his life, Doc is transformed, and finds a form of redemption before he dies. I found this novel to be a wonderful evocation of a place and time which I never could have visited had I not read this book. It is also beautifully written, with many a poetic turn of phrase and usually just the right word at the right time. I highly recommend it. Grade: A