Stick People

William Davenport's *Stick People* is a hauntingly raw and deeply human exploration of life on the margins of society. Set against the gritty backdrop of 1970s New York City, the novel follows Jack, a photographer with a keen eye for the overlooked, and Emma, a young woman whose life has been shaped by hardship and survival. Through Jack's lens, Davenport captures the stark beauty and painful truths of urban decay, addiction, and resilience, weaving a narrative that is as unflinching as it is compassionate. At its core, *Stick People* is a story about connection-between artist and subject, between past and present, and between hope and despair. Jack's journey to document the lives of those society has forgotten becomes a deeply personal quest, blurring the lines between observer and participant. Emma, with her guarded vulnerability and quiet strength, emerges as a powerful symbol of survival, her story a testament to the enduring human spirit.Davenport's prose is both lyrical and visceral, painting a vivid portrait of a city teetering on the edge of chaos. His characters are richly drawn, their struggles and triumphs rendered with a sensitivity that refuses to shy away from the harsh realities of their lives. The novel's exploration of themes like addiction, trauma, and redemption is handled with nuance and care, offering a poignant reminder of the power of empathy and the importance of bearing witness to the stories that often go untold. *Stick People* is more than just a novel-it's a call to see the humanity in those who are often invisible. Davenport's background as a filmmaker and activist shines through in his ability to craft a narrative that is both visually evocative and emotionally resonant. This is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page, a powerful reminder of the lives that exist in the shadows and the light that can be found even in the darkest corners. For fans of gritty, character-driven fiction and stories that challenge the status quo, *Stick People* is a must-read. William Davenport has created a masterpiece that is as thought-provoking as it is unforgettable.