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Love, Like Apples
Not yet published
Expected 3 Nov 26Growing up motherless and under the cruel eye of his alcoholic, emotionally distant father, Tiller Loomis seemed destined for a hardscrabble life. In the 1960s, the small Appalachian town of Sawyer, Tennessee offered few opportunities outside of working arduous hours on his family’s apple orchard. The one ray of light was his older brother Smith, a compassionate and gentle boy who salvages what might have otherwise been a brutal childhood. Kindness, he teaches Tiller, is a choice.
But when Smith is drafted into the Vietnam War, Tiller’s world collapses. Directionless and grief-stricken, he stumbles into a children’s puppet show at his church and ultimately finds purpose and joy through the strange, tender art of puppetry. Chasing his dream of puppeteering full time, Tiller lands in the gritty, graffitied, bohemian hothouse of 1977 New York City, where experimental artists and misfit idealists are using puppets to try to reach teens with a message of hope on a PBS show called Imagine Nation.
In Imagine Nation’s cast, Tiller finds a chosen family of dreamers and creators who will change his life forever, chief among whom is the beautiful Julie DiFrancesca, a fiercely vivacious woman who offers Tiller a chance at a life he never thought possible.
Narratively framed as a present-day documentary production about Imagine Nation, LOVE, LIKE APPLES takes us from the 1970s into the modern era, tracing how the ripples from one controversial but forgotten TV show and a complicated love affair continue outward over decades, while also exploring the indelible power of radical empathy and the lives of the artists who carry its flame in their hearts.
But when Smith is drafted into the Vietnam War, Tiller’s world collapses. Directionless and grief-stricken, he stumbles into a children’s puppet show at his church and ultimately finds purpose and joy through the strange, tender art of puppetry. Chasing his dream of puppeteering full time, Tiller lands in the gritty, graffitied, bohemian hothouse of 1977 New York City, where experimental artists and misfit idealists are using puppets to try to reach teens with a message of hope on a PBS show called Imagine Nation.
In Imagine Nation’s cast, Tiller finds a chosen family of dreamers and creators who will change his life forever, chief among whom is the beautiful Julie DiFrancesca, a fiercely vivacious woman who offers Tiller a chance at a life he never thought possible.
Narratively framed as a present-day documentary production about Imagine Nation, LOVE, LIKE APPLES takes us from the 1970s into the modern era, tracing how the ripples from one controversial but forgotten TV show and a complicated love affair continue outward over decades, while also exploring the indelible power of radical empathy and the lives of the artists who carry its flame in their hearts.
400 pages, Paperback
Expected publication November 3, 2026
About the author
Jeff Zentner
12 books2,643 followersJeff Zentner is the author of The Serpent King, which Kirkus Reviews named one of the best books of the 21st Century, as well as In the Wild Light, Goodbye Days, Rayne & Delilah’s Midnite Matinee, Colton Gentry's Third Act, and Sunrise Nights, coauthored with Brittany Cavallaro. He has two books—Wayfarers and Love, Like Apples—forthcoming in 2026.
Among other honors, he has won the ALA’s William C. Morris Award, the Amelia Elizabeth Walden Award twice, the Muriel Becker Award, the International Literacy Association Award, been longlisted twice for the Carnegie Medal, and is a two-time Southern Book Prize finalist.
His books have been translated into fifteen languages and been featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, and in Vanity Fair and People Magazine. Before becoming a writer, he was a musician who recorded with Iggy Pop, Nick Cave, and Debbie Harry. He lives in Nashville.
Among other honors, he has won the ALA’s William C. Morris Award, the Amelia Elizabeth Walden Award twice, the Muriel Becker Award, the International Literacy Association Award, been longlisted twice for the Carnegie Medal, and is a two-time Southern Book Prize finalist.
His books have been translated into fifteen languages and been featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, and in Vanity Fair and People Magazine. Before becoming a writer, he was a musician who recorded with Iggy Pop, Nick Cave, and Debbie Harry. He lives in Nashville.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 15, 2026
I’m a huge Jeff Zentner fan. A huge, huge one. But when I started reading Love, Like Apples I was like, is this it? Is this really it? I even started looking up reviews. They were all five‑star ones. Okayyy… was I missing something? Apparently. So I read on.
The thing is, I had to get used to the structure. Telling the story like it’s a documentary with constant fourth‑wall breaks, especially in the first part, isn’t my favorite. But at the same time, the story grew on me.
Tiller’s bond with Smith, his escape to New York, the misfits he meets at Imagine Nation, and of course Julie—they all make this book a treat to read. The writing is gorgeous and so heartfelt, and Tiller’s feelings jump off the page. But somehow I kept my own feelings at bay. Until that last part, when tears started to burn behind my eyes. On a plane ride of all places where I definitely couldn’t start crying. But that time at Christmas, or the scene at the hospital, or when Billy ran off… I blew my nose, read a bit more, and blew my nose again. Those last pages wrecked me.
Love, Like Apples is a gorgeous story that burns with the fire of love, and it’s one we need so badly right now.
Some people never learn they have a choice in this life about who they’ll be. They never get the chance to see that there are no rails laid for them and they can elect for decency even if circumstance didn’t ordain them to it. That’s a damn shame. I learned when I was six. My brother taught me.
Jeff Zentner is just amazing at tugging at your heart and shaping a story with real precision. I wasn’t a huge fan at first, but the deeper I got into it, the more it won me over.
Thank you, Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley, for this beautiful ARC!
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The thing is, I had to get used to the structure. Telling the story like it’s a documentary with constant fourth‑wall breaks, especially in the first part, isn’t my favorite. But at the same time, the story grew on me.
Tiller’s bond with Smith, his escape to New York, the misfits he meets at Imagine Nation, and of course Julie—they all make this book a treat to read. The writing is gorgeous and so heartfelt, and Tiller’s feelings jump off the page. But somehow I kept my own feelings at bay. Until that last part, when tears started to burn behind my eyes. On a plane ride of all places where I definitely couldn’t start crying. But that time at Christmas, or the scene at the hospital, or when Billy ran off… I blew my nose, read a bit more, and blew my nose again. Those last pages wrecked me.
Love, Like Apples is a gorgeous story that burns with the fire of love, and it’s one we need so badly right now.
Some people never learn they have a choice in this life about who they’ll be. They never get the chance to see that there are no rails laid for them and they can elect for decency even if circumstance didn’t ordain them to it. That’s a damn shame. I learned when I was six. My brother taught me.
Jeff Zentner is just amazing at tugging at your heart and shaping a story with real precision. I wasn’t a huge fan at first, but the deeper I got into it, the more it won me over.
Thank you, Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley, for this beautiful ARC!
Follow me on Instagram
April 10, 2026
Thank you, Grand Central Pub and Jeff Zentner, for an advanced copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Tiller Loomis recounts his experience of making Imagine Nation, a puppet show for teens that had a short run on PBS in the 70s, for the making of a documentary.
How the heck do a write a review that does this book justice? That does Jeff justice? This may end up being more of a thesis statement about why you should read Jeff Zentner’s books, but I don’t care. Believe me when I say, when I read books by Jeff, it makes me wish he wrote all of the books in the world. I don’t want to read anything by anyone else.
Jeff is quite simply a poet. His writing is so warm, fluid, and full of rich descriptions. This book (which I argue is his best yet) just BEGS to be read slowly and savored. I sat in it. Basked in it. And let it wash over me. And highlighted damn near half of the book. This book is raw and gritty, but also hopeful, soft, and so heartfelt. It’s hard to describe it, but it just *feels* like Jeff. He cracked his heart wide open to write this one.
As we follow Tiller’s life story and how he physically moves from Tennessee to NYC, Jeff delivers a a deep sense of place along the way. You can hear the sounds. Feel the grime. And you will wince, but all together fully understand, the descriptions of the smells.
This story celebrates art and the power of it in a way I have not read before. Art saves lives! And you can tell Jeff personally believes that deep down in his core or he would not have been able to write a story like this. In a lot of ways, knowing Jeff and his heart for youth, this felt like a deeply personal venture. The ways that the cast and crew of Imagine Nation push the envelope, take risks, and create without a safety net were inspiring. This book is a celebration of human connection, creativity, hope in a dark world, and making art despite not knowing what sort of reach it will have (but deeply longing for it spread to far corners).
AND THE ROMANCE! Golly. Say all you want about a man writing romance, but Jeff writes some of the most tender and emotionally intelligent men you will ever read. He masterfully shines a spotlight on soft-hearted masculinity. And Tiller and Julie’s romance is one that will surely stick with me - it was a sort of quiet and epic love at the same time. And my gosh? Tiller’s declaration of love? I was on the floor.
Have I convinced you yet? Have I convinced you to pick up this book about Tiller, a man “poured from a crucible of grief,” puppetry, and the rag-tag group that made a puppet show for teens in the 70s in gritty NYC? If so, then my job is done. If not, I’ll continue to be insufferable about this book. It’s not out until November, so well, there’s still plenty of time.
Tiller Loomis recounts his experience of making Imagine Nation, a puppet show for teens that had a short run on PBS in the 70s, for the making of a documentary.
How the heck do a write a review that does this book justice? That does Jeff justice? This may end up being more of a thesis statement about why you should read Jeff Zentner’s books, but I don’t care. Believe me when I say, when I read books by Jeff, it makes me wish he wrote all of the books in the world. I don’t want to read anything by anyone else.
Jeff is quite simply a poet. His writing is so warm, fluid, and full of rich descriptions. This book (which I argue is his best yet) just BEGS to be read slowly and savored. I sat in it. Basked in it. And let it wash over me. And highlighted damn near half of the book. This book is raw and gritty, but also hopeful, soft, and so heartfelt. It’s hard to describe it, but it just *feels* like Jeff. He cracked his heart wide open to write this one.
As we follow Tiller’s life story and how he physically moves from Tennessee to NYC, Jeff delivers a a deep sense of place along the way. You can hear the sounds. Feel the grime. And you will wince, but all together fully understand, the descriptions of the smells.
This story celebrates art and the power of it in a way I have not read before. Art saves lives! And you can tell Jeff personally believes that deep down in his core or he would not have been able to write a story like this. In a lot of ways, knowing Jeff and his heart for youth, this felt like a deeply personal venture. The ways that the cast and crew of Imagine Nation push the envelope, take risks, and create without a safety net were inspiring. This book is a celebration of human connection, creativity, hope in a dark world, and making art despite not knowing what sort of reach it will have (but deeply longing for it spread to far corners).
AND THE ROMANCE! Golly. Say all you want about a man writing romance, but Jeff writes some of the most tender and emotionally intelligent men you will ever read. He masterfully shines a spotlight on soft-hearted masculinity. And Tiller and Julie’s romance is one that will surely stick with me - it was a sort of quiet and epic love at the same time. And my gosh? Tiller’s declaration of love? I was on the floor.
Have I convinced you yet? Have I convinced you to pick up this book about Tiller, a man “poured from a crucible of grief,” puppetry, and the rag-tag group that made a puppet show for teens in the 70s in gritty NYC? If so, then my job is done. If not, I’ll continue to be insufferable about this book. It’s not out until November, so well, there’s still plenty of time.
April 30, 2026
Full review to come once I stop crying
Read
April 16, 2026ARC (and an early one, so maybe some of my issues with its writing will be finished in the final draft) - but this one was just not for me. I'm not posting this review on any of the official industry platforms but ugh. I wanted to like this but it's so full of itself. 2 stars.
Good lines:
"’We're making this show for kids who don't dream of the stars because they can't see the stars.’ …
‘They don’t have time to imagine worlds beyond this one because they’re just trying to survive the one they live in.’" p. 231
“Sometimes you have to choose joy because of the darkness and not in spite of it.” p. 402
"'In spite of everything, this was a beautiful world to live in.'" p. 418
------------
Okay and now for my critiques
//Everyone’s dialogue sounded the same (and verbose). Try to actually read this as the premise implies: an oral history; interview-style. Who monologues for THAT LONG and THAT OSTENTATIOUSLY
I’m still doubting the concept of puppeteering for a teenage audience. It doesn’t feel likely now, and certainly not in that time period. As humor, sure! As a “let me get real with ya, real talk” show, ehhh….
“The florid warmth of her skin with its dewy gloss of perspiration radiated off her. Her eyes met mine and I wanted to avert, bashful at such closeness, but the only thing I desired more was to gaze into them deeply. Under the workshop’s harsh fluorescents, they were the shade of sand-weathered seaglass floating in her freckles. [...]
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t tarry in gauging the circumference of her head.”HOLY OVERWRITTEN NONSENSE BATMAN holy overwritten nonsense batman (demure)
“[The figs’] delicate, silken skin matched Julie’s eyes” p. 404 ARE HER EYES PURPLE??????? THAT IS THE SHADE OF A FIG SKIN wtf lol
Good lines:
"’We're making this show for kids who don't dream of the stars because they can't see the stars.’ …
‘They don’t have time to imagine worlds beyond this one because they’re just trying to survive the one they live in.’" p. 231
“Sometimes you have to choose joy because of the darkness and not in spite of it.” p. 402
"'In spite of everything, this was a beautiful world to live in.'" p. 418
------------
Okay and now for my critiques
//Everyone’s dialogue sounded the same (and verbose). Try to actually read this as the premise implies: an oral history; interview-style. Who monologues for THAT LONG and THAT OSTENTATIOUSLY
I’m still doubting the concept of puppeteering for a teenage audience. It doesn’t feel likely now, and certainly not in that time period. As humor, sure! As a “let me get real with ya, real talk” show, ehhh….
“The florid warmth of her skin with its dewy gloss of perspiration radiated off her. Her eyes met mine and I wanted to avert, bashful at such closeness, but the only thing I desired more was to gaze into them deeply. Under the workshop’s harsh fluorescents, they were the shade of sand-weathered seaglass floating in her freckles. [...]
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t tarry in gauging the circumference of her head.”
“[The figs’] delicate, silken skin matched Julie’s eyes” p. 404 ARE HER EYES PURPLE??????? THAT IS THE SHADE OF A FIG SKIN wtf lol
June 6, 2026
Jeff Zentner cannot write a bad book!
My goodness, another beautiful story from the poet himself. Who would have thought that a story about puppeteers in 1970s New York would be so captivating? This book is full of beauty, gentleness, and love, and makes you long for more of that in our world.
“Sometimes, radical gentleness can be the most subversive thing of all.”
My goodness, another beautiful story from the poet himself. Who would have thought that a story about puppeteers in 1970s New York would be so captivating? This book is full of beauty, gentleness, and love, and makes you long for more of that in our world.
“Sometimes, radical gentleness can be the most subversive thing of all.”
March 11, 2026
Amazing amazing read. I laughed and I cried. Such a great premise and format for telling the story with the documentary interview and the characters immediately felt like people you know. The author also has such a great skill at describing things I learned quite a few new words!!
May 19, 2026
I have said it before, but I’ll say it again: Jeff Zentner is my favorite author, hands down, and I am so thankful to have been able to read his newest book, Love, Like Apples, ahead of its November 3 publication date. It’s the 1960s in small-town Tennessee when, after a devastating personal loss, Tiller Loomis finds the magic of puppetry. Following his dreams takes him to New York in the 1980s, where he joins a televised puppet show called Imagine Nation, geared towards teens. The book is told from elderly Tiller’s POV as he talks to a documentarian in real time, and it is a solid five-star read. As in all his other books, Jeff is a poet. The language he uses to tell stories is beautiful and elegant, the characters are deep and thoughtful, and it all works together to create that literary magic that he always delivers. Special thanks to Parnassus Books for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2026
The story is told thru Tiller eyes. He is being interviewed for a documentary about a show he was on called Imagine Nation in PBS. It follows him from the very beginning when his mother dies in childbirth to his present day life.
Ok I loved this one. Masterful storytelling. I was already a Jeff Zetner fan and this is one of my favorites from him. It’s just a great story. I don’t know what to even say. It’s so heartfelt. The story is sad, and at times funny, it’s beautiful and gritty. I was captivated from beginning to end. I loved the format and the way the story unfolded. I loved all of the characters. I loved everything. I have nothing bad to say other than I was sad when it ended.
I will be recommending it to
Anyone who will listen.
Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Pub for providing me a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Ok I loved this one. Masterful storytelling. I was already a Jeff Zetner fan and this is one of my favorites from him. It’s just a great story. I don’t know what to even say. It’s so heartfelt. The story is sad, and at times funny, it’s beautiful and gritty. I was captivated from beginning to end. I loved the format and the way the story unfolded. I loved all of the characters. I loved everything. I have nothing bad to say other than I was sad when it ended.
I will be recommending it to
Anyone who will listen.
Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Pub for providing me a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 25, 2026
I lack the words to express just how incredible Jeff’s writing is. His ability to make me feel nostalgic for a life so unlike mine needs to be studied. What a remarkable talent.
May 18, 2026
Thank you so much netgalley.
How on earth is this, at its core, about puppets? Like HOW. Because I found myself tearing up, emotionally connected, desperately seeking page after page...about puppets...
This story follows Tiller, a puppeteer who worked on a quickly cancelled TV show meant to help teens deal with LIFE in the 70's/80's. Its interview style so there is a ton of fourth wall breaking as we follow Tiller from his home in the rural south to the big apple.
There are some writers who could write about paint drying, city smells, or in this case puppets and it would be magical...THAT is Zentner. The line level magic here is next level, and I found myself snapping away pieces to store in my brain. This is the kind of line level writing that makes you want to be a writer, or read someone's entire backlist.
As for the story...man this is beautiful. It's really about morality, and right and wrong, and how do we teach people (in the eye's of Tiller's brother) to CHOOSE to be good people...and man it was just exquisite. It deals with some real issues very smartly: the vietnam war, drug abuse, the aids epidemic, racism, homosexuality...in just this absolutely stunning way that absorbs you into the story. Billy's moment? Cried. The blackout? Heart racing. Realizing the fate of the show and its impact on the interview. Brilliant. This never felt performative even being truly ABOUT performance.
It is a romance, and Julie/Tiller are beautiful...but in one of the few ways I've ever seen friends to lovers done correctly. Tiller's proclamation deserves to be highlighted, their ease into love studied...I dunno it just WORKED. It touches PG-13 at maybe best and is a shining example of how sex isn't explicitly needed to deliver romance.
Puppets. Just Puppets. I don't know how he did it but this is stunning.
How on earth is this, at its core, about puppets? Like HOW. Because I found myself tearing up, emotionally connected, desperately seeking page after page...about puppets...
This story follows Tiller, a puppeteer who worked on a quickly cancelled TV show meant to help teens deal with LIFE in the 70's/80's. Its interview style so there is a ton of fourth wall breaking as we follow Tiller from his home in the rural south to the big apple.
There are some writers who could write about paint drying, city smells, or in this case puppets and it would be magical...THAT is Zentner. The line level magic here is next level, and I found myself snapping away pieces to store in my brain. This is the kind of line level writing that makes you want to be a writer, or read someone's entire backlist.
As for the story...man this is beautiful. It's really about morality, and right and wrong, and how do we teach people (in the eye's of Tiller's brother) to CHOOSE to be good people...and man it was just exquisite. It deals with some real issues very smartly: the vietnam war, drug abuse, the aids epidemic, racism, homosexuality...in just this absolutely stunning way that absorbs you into the story. Billy's moment? Cried. The blackout? Heart racing. Realizing the fate of the show and its impact on the interview. Brilliant. This never felt performative even being truly ABOUT performance.
It is a romance, and Julie/Tiller are beautiful...but in one of the few ways I've ever seen friends to lovers done correctly. Tiller's proclamation deserves to be highlighted, their ease into love studied...I dunno it just WORKED. It touches PG-13 at maybe best and is a shining example of how sex isn't explicitly needed to deliver romance.
Puppets. Just Puppets. I don't know how he did it but this is stunning.
April 16, 2026
Go ahead and ask me my favorite book that I’ve ever read. Before this moment I would have had to think long and hard before giving a half hearted answer. The answer will no longer be half hearted and will also require no thought. Love, Like Apples was such a simple book at its core but managed to weave its way directly into my soul. Such a story and a group of characters. I will be buying the hard copy of this book and I can guarantee that within a year it will be tattered and worn and well loved.
Review of advance copy received from Author
In the scope of a lifetime, you have a few big tentpole moments if you’re lucky. Love, Like Apples is a walk through Tiller Loomis’s.
Now in his 70s, he is approached by a documentarian to tell the story of Imagine Nation, a short-lived 1970’s puppet show for teens. But to tell of his experience of Imagine Nation, Tiller has to start at the very beginning - his roots on his family’s apple orchard in Tennessee, his love for his older brother, how he finds the art of puppeteering as a means to cope with loss.
Then we learn how his puppeteering takes him to New York City in the gritty 1970’s, welcomed into a group of rag tag broken misfits, to write and act on a subversive and radical puppet show (!). There he meets his found family, he finds love, he explores the world in a way one only can in NYC. We meet Julie, the love of his life (except she’s dating the show’s head writer).
This book is the story of a gentle, kind man’s life and how puppeteering saved him and many others.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you read that summary and you’re like “puppets??? huh?” I’m gonna ask you to just trust me.
As with all Jeff Zentner books, the writing is atmospheric and stunning. This is a quote from the book, but to me it sums up Zentner’s writing incredibly well: “It turned out that everyone responded to heart, humor, and respect for the viewer’s intellect.” This is the secret sauce of all JZ books: heart, humor and a respect for the reader’s intellect. Love, Like Apples sticks to the recipe.
If you follow the author on Instagram, you might know that he often shares videos of barges going down sloth-like down a river. Barges themselves are a bit ugly and yet there’s some meditative, serene quality to watching them move through the water. That’s what this book is like (except it ain’t ugly): slowly, purposefully moving through the tentpoles of Tiller’s life. And I sank into it a little bit, thinking for once, “Zentner, this is beautiful but you’re not taking me down this time.” Alas, I played myself because OF COURSE the final act of this book was like getting hit in the face with an emotional 2x4.
A moment for Tiller and his brother Smith. This was such a special relationship, with Smith largely acting as the only parent and family that Tiller had. What a powerful role Smith played in Tiller’s life, setting him on a course that allowed him to be confident in his kindness, self-assured in his approach to the world even when the world was unkind to him.
Tiller and Julie’s relationship was a quintessential NYC love story. My god. I read a lot of romance and there are few books where you can just feel that the characters are true soulmates. Tiller and Julie are true soulmates. Their relationship was my favorite part of the book.
Have you seen the Broadway show Avenue Q? Avenue Q was released in the early 2000s, and was considered radical for its time. Now put that on PBS in the 1970s. Subversion and radicalism are the heart of Imagine Nation. And each of the players brought their own deeply personal story to how they got into puppeteering and ended up on the show. These are not just freaks and geeks - these are broken and lost souls who somehow found themselves again through the art of puppetry. What a special group of people this is.
History and place also served as characters in this book. Zentner folds in some historical references that people probably have heard of briefly but are lesser known tentpole moments of the time. For example, the book references Freedom Summer rather than the bigger civil rights events like Selma. We live through the NYC blackout of 1977. The start of the AIDS epidemic. These events play a role in shaping our characters and their environment.
For hailing from Tennessee, Zentner does NYC exceptionally well. This book exudes the magic of NYC in a way that transcends time, even though the majority of the book is set in the 1970s. NYC is still a place where you can find the entire world in a few square blocks. Where you can find yourself or lose yourself. Where you can be whoever you want to be.
Finally, in a very special moment for me, while sobbing at the end of this book, I was rendered absolutely fucking speechless to have turned the page into the acknowledgments to see my own name there. I am but a passionate fan of Zentner’s work and will scream about it to anyone who will listen, so I am utterly honored to have been personally thanked by the author when I should be the one thanking him. I continue to be a proud member of the (unofficially official) Jeff Zentner Fan Club.
My thanks to Grand Central Publishing and Jeff Zentner for an advanced copy of this book, which releases on November 3, 2026.
Now in his 70s, he is approached by a documentarian to tell the story of Imagine Nation, a short-lived 1970’s puppet show for teens. But to tell of his experience of Imagine Nation, Tiller has to start at the very beginning - his roots on his family’s apple orchard in Tennessee, his love for his older brother, how he finds the art of puppeteering as a means to cope with loss.
Then we learn how his puppeteering takes him to New York City in the gritty 1970’s, welcomed into a group of rag tag broken misfits, to write and act on a subversive and radical puppet show (!). There he meets his found family, he finds love, he explores the world in a way one only can in NYC. We meet Julie, the love of his life (except she’s dating the show’s head writer).
This book is the story of a gentle, kind man’s life and how puppeteering saved him and many others.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you read that summary and you’re like “puppets??? huh?” I’m gonna ask you to just trust me.
As with all Jeff Zentner books, the writing is atmospheric and stunning. This is a quote from the book, but to me it sums up Zentner’s writing incredibly well: “It turned out that everyone responded to heart, humor, and respect for the viewer’s intellect.” This is the secret sauce of all JZ books: heart, humor and a respect for the reader’s intellect. Love, Like Apples sticks to the recipe.
If you follow the author on Instagram, you might know that he often shares videos of barges going down sloth-like down a river. Barges themselves are a bit ugly and yet there’s some meditative, serene quality to watching them move through the water. That’s what this book is like (except it ain’t ugly): slowly, purposefully moving through the tentpoles of Tiller’s life. And I sank into it a little bit, thinking for once, “Zentner, this is beautiful but you’re not taking me down this time.” Alas, I played myself because OF COURSE the final act of this book was like getting hit in the face with an emotional 2x4.
A moment for Tiller and his brother Smith. This was such a special relationship, with Smith largely acting as the only parent and family that Tiller had. What a powerful role Smith played in Tiller’s life, setting him on a course that allowed him to be confident in his kindness, self-assured in his approach to the world even when the world was unkind to him.
Tiller and Julie’s relationship was a quintessential NYC love story. My god. I read a lot of romance and there are few books where you can just feel that the characters are true soulmates. Tiller and Julie are true soulmates. Their relationship was my favorite part of the book.
Have you seen the Broadway show Avenue Q? Avenue Q was released in the early 2000s, and was considered radical for its time. Now put that on PBS in the 1970s. Subversion and radicalism are the heart of Imagine Nation. And each of the players brought their own deeply personal story to how they got into puppeteering and ended up on the show. These are not just freaks and geeks - these are broken and lost souls who somehow found themselves again through the art of puppetry. What a special group of people this is.
History and place also served as characters in this book. Zentner folds in some historical references that people probably have heard of briefly but are lesser known tentpole moments of the time. For example, the book references Freedom Summer rather than the bigger civil rights events like Selma. We live through the NYC blackout of 1977. The start of the AIDS epidemic. These events play a role in shaping our characters and their environment.
For hailing from Tennessee, Zentner does NYC exceptionally well. This book exudes the magic of NYC in a way that transcends time, even though the majority of the book is set in the 1970s. NYC is still a place where you can find the entire world in a few square blocks. Where you can find yourself or lose yourself. Where you can be whoever you want to be.
Finally, in a very special moment for me, while sobbing at the end of this book, I was rendered absolutely fucking speechless to have turned the page into the acknowledgments to see my own name there. I am but a passionate fan of Zentner’s work and will scream about it to anyone who will listen, so I am utterly honored to have been personally thanked by the author when I should be the one thanking him. I continue to be a proud member of the (unofficially official) Jeff Zentner Fan Club.
My thanks to Grand Central Publishing and Jeff Zentner for an advanced copy of this book, which releases on November 3, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
After falling in love with Colton Gentry’s Third Act by @jeffzetner, I had high hopes for this book and immediately requested on NetGalley. Thank you @netgalley and @grandcentralpub the advanced e-arc. I cannot wait to hold this book in my hands when it releases in November.
This story to me is one of love, acceptance, belonging and hope. Tiller is sharing his experience from his difficult small town childhood working at his family’s apple orchard to New York where he and a group of people from all backgrounds and experiences all came together through a love of puppetry and wanting to make the world a better place. To show children that kindness and goodness is a choice you can make despite your upbringing and surroundings - a lesson he learned from his brother, Smith, and which changed his life. And isn’t that a lesson we all can learn?
Tiller is recalling his time working on and performing on a puppetry show for PBS called Imagine Nation during the uprising of shows like Sesame Street which opened the doors for them. Their low budget show was meant to be more socially conscious and touching on heavier subjects drawn from their own personal experiences. They touch on war, drug use, sexuality, all of which mirror things these individuals have overcome. They hope to show young teens true life lessons through the humor and heart of their puppets. The show was not long for the air but the documentary producer had found some of the episodes and wanted to know more. And more they received as we follow along on Tiller’s journey from the 60s to present day.
I was so very engrossed in the story of Tiller and Julie and the other members of the group. This is a story filled with loss and sadness but so much love both romantic and found family. I was invested and enthralled by this look into 1970s culture and the city of New York at that time and what happened to this group of dreamers.
As a child born in the mid 70s who, funnily enough, grew up on a farm sandwiched by two apple orchards and whose high school mascot was an “Appkeknocker” (yes, really) I remember watching PBS long after the intended targeted age thanks to only having three channels. This book really felt nostalgic and meaningful to me. Both in thinking about the past and also the present and what it means to kids being able to see themselves represented in the media (and books) and how important that is even now.
“This world is hard yet will show you mercy. It will find you—that ecstatic sweetness born of improbable circumstance. Love, like apples.”
I know this is long but if you’ve come this far thank you for letting me ramble. I hope people pick up this book and enjoy it as thoroughly as I did. And, in the meantime, pick up Colton Gentry and experience this author’s gift of story telling.
This story to me is one of love, acceptance, belonging and hope. Tiller is sharing his experience from his difficult small town childhood working at his family’s apple orchard to New York where he and a group of people from all backgrounds and experiences all came together through a love of puppetry and wanting to make the world a better place. To show children that kindness and goodness is a choice you can make despite your upbringing and surroundings - a lesson he learned from his brother, Smith, and which changed his life. And isn’t that a lesson we all can learn?
Tiller is recalling his time working on and performing on a puppetry show for PBS called Imagine Nation during the uprising of shows like Sesame Street which opened the doors for them. Their low budget show was meant to be more socially conscious and touching on heavier subjects drawn from their own personal experiences. They touch on war, drug use, sexuality, all of which mirror things these individuals have overcome. They hope to show young teens true life lessons through the humor and heart of their puppets. The show was not long for the air but the documentary producer had found some of the episodes and wanted to know more. And more they received as we follow along on Tiller’s journey from the 60s to present day.
I was so very engrossed in the story of Tiller and Julie and the other members of the group. This is a story filled with loss and sadness but so much love both romantic and found family. I was invested and enthralled by this look into 1970s culture and the city of New York at that time and what happened to this group of dreamers.
As a child born in the mid 70s who, funnily enough, grew up on a farm sandwiched by two apple orchards and whose high school mascot was an “Appkeknocker” (yes, really) I remember watching PBS long after the intended targeted age thanks to only having three channels. This book really felt nostalgic and meaningful to me. Both in thinking about the past and also the present and what it means to kids being able to see themselves represented in the media (and books) and how important that is even now.
“This world is hard yet will show you mercy. It will find you—that ecstatic sweetness born of improbable circumstance. Love, like apples.”
I know this is long but if you’ve come this far thank you for letting me ramble. I hope people pick up this book and enjoy it as thoroughly as I did. And, in the meantime, pick up Colton Gentry and experience this author’s gift of story telling.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This touching story is set mostly in the tiny town of Sawyer, TN, in the Appalachian Mountains and then in NYC. The story follows the main character of Tiller, an intelligent, kind, and caring soul following his dreams as his life takes him to NYC. It makes nearly a complete circle, ending back in the Appalachians.
Tiller's mother died due to complications during childbirth. His father, who became very uncaring and seemingly unable to love again, blamed his second son for his wife's death. His father then turned to alcohol seeking solace.
The only familial love that Tiller received growing up came from his older brother and role model, Smith. Smith instilled in Tiller that it was up to each person to see the good and be the good regardless of their circumstances and treatment from others. Tiller took this lesson to heart as he and his brother worked the apple orchard on their father's land.
Love, Like Apples takes place during the era of tumultuous riots in the US over our involvement in the Vietnam War. Some of the inhabitants in their small Appalachian town of Sawyer didn't see all of this upheaval, however, because for some living there, getting out any way at all they thought was their only hope.
Smith does not enlist but rather gets drafted. He sadly does not return romm the war, and that in itself changes Tiller's life drastically, nudging him to get out of the Appalachian area for his own good.
Through a kind, older couple who put on a puppet show at church, Tiller becomes interested in puppeteering. He leaves his small Appalachian town and heads first to Knoxville then eventually lands a job in New York City for a brand new show, Imagine Nation.
The way this story is told, through interview/documentary format, everything aspect of it seems so real. Think of Imagine Nation (and what a witty title) as The Muppets but aimed at teenagers, helping them see that they are not alone and others have the same problems that they are experiencing.
By being set mostly in NYC during this chaotic and sometimes wild 1970s time period, it tackles so many pertinent and relevant topics of the '70s then spilling into the '80s - the NY drug scene, treatment of gays, and even touches upon the beginning of the AIDS epidemic.
It's on the set of Imagine Nation that Tiller meets an eclectic hodgepodge of misfits who become friends for life (even though the series itself was short-lived for trying to break barriers). It's also on the set where Tiller meets the love of his life, Julie, who at the time is with the show's head writer.
Zentner writes beautifully and exposes so much raw human emotion. Love, Like Apples is such a touching story exquisitely narrated. Thank you, NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing, for the opportunity to read this poignant story. Look for it to hit shelves Nov. 3, 2026.
Tiller's mother died due to complications during childbirth. His father, who became very uncaring and seemingly unable to love again, blamed his second son for his wife's death. His father then turned to alcohol seeking solace.
The only familial love that Tiller received growing up came from his older brother and role model, Smith. Smith instilled in Tiller that it was up to each person to see the good and be the good regardless of their circumstances and treatment from others. Tiller took this lesson to heart as he and his brother worked the apple orchard on their father's land.
Love, Like Apples takes place during the era of tumultuous riots in the US over our involvement in the Vietnam War. Some of the inhabitants in their small Appalachian town of Sawyer didn't see all of this upheaval, however, because for some living there, getting out any way at all they thought was their only hope.
Smith does not enlist but rather gets drafted. He sadly does not return romm the war, and that in itself changes Tiller's life drastically, nudging him to get out of the Appalachian area for his own good.
Through a kind, older couple who put on a puppet show at church, Tiller becomes interested in puppeteering. He leaves his small Appalachian town and heads first to Knoxville then eventually lands a job in New York City for a brand new show, Imagine Nation.
The way this story is told, through interview/documentary format, everything aspect of it seems so real. Think of Imagine Nation (and what a witty title) as The Muppets but aimed at teenagers, helping them see that they are not alone and others have the same problems that they are experiencing.
By being set mostly in NYC during this chaotic and sometimes wild 1970s time period, it tackles so many pertinent and relevant topics of the '70s then spilling into the '80s - the NY drug scene, treatment of gays, and even touches upon the beginning of the AIDS epidemic.
It's on the set of Imagine Nation that Tiller meets an eclectic hodgepodge of misfits who become friends for life (even though the series itself was short-lived for trying to break barriers). It's also on the set where Tiller meets the love of his life, Julie, who at the time is with the show's head writer.
Zentner writes beautifully and exposes so much raw human emotion. Love, Like Apples is such a touching story exquisitely narrated. Thank you, NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing, for the opportunity to read this poignant story. Look for it to hit shelves Nov. 3, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another five star read from Jeff Zentner!
In "Love, Like Apples" Tiller, our main character and narrator, shares the story of how a 1970s public broadcast children's show (Imagine Nation) with puppets (think: Sesame Street, but for teenagers) changed his life and left a lasting impact on the world. Tiller is from a small town in rural Tennessee who discovers a love of and talent for puppetry as a teenager. In his 20s, he moves to NYC to pursue puppetry full-time and joins the cast of an upcoming children's show, Imagine Nation. The show's aim was to reach teenagers and explore issues that affect them in their daily lives, giving them a safe space to explore and learn: ."We won't always present a rosy view of America. That would be lying to teenagers, and they'd sniff us out immediately. But we'll always depict a vision for a country we believe can live up to its promise - the nation we imagine." What Tiller finds when he is hired as one of the puppeteers is more than just a paycheck; it's community, acceptance, family, love.
The story explores some sensitive topics, including drug use, drug abuse, PTSD, homophobia, suicidal ideation, and physical abuse. It treats of each of these topics with sensitivity and a gentleness that is honest and authentic. The story feels subversive but in small, subtle ways; as Tiller opines: "Sometimes radical gentleness can be the most subversive thing of all."
Despite the heartbreak he has had in his life and the challenges he has faced, Tiller's story always reflects joy: "Sometimes you have to choose joy because of the darkness and not in spite of it."
While the story is written as Tiller narrating his experiences through interviews for a documentary, the story is written in prose (not in interview format, like Daisy Jones and the Six). Zentner's interest in poetry is evident in the beautifully written prose; it is lyrical and atmospheric and draws the reader into the emotions of the story. Tiller's life story is an example of "how love, like apples, is a sweetness that emerges from improbable circumstances." And while the circumstances of this story were fictional, the characters and their stories and the historic backdrop all felt real. This one will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you in advance to the author and publisher for this advanced copy through NetGalley. I'm so privileged to have read this. If you loved Jeff Zentner's other adult novel, "Colton Gentry's Third Act," you'll love this one too. (If you haven't read Colton Gentry, what are you waiting for...?)
In "Love, Like Apples" Tiller, our main character and narrator, shares the story of how a 1970s public broadcast children's show (Imagine Nation) with puppets (think: Sesame Street, but for teenagers) changed his life and left a lasting impact on the world. Tiller is from a small town in rural Tennessee who discovers a love of and talent for puppetry as a teenager. In his 20s, he moves to NYC to pursue puppetry full-time and joins the cast of an upcoming children's show, Imagine Nation. The show's aim was to reach teenagers and explore issues that affect them in their daily lives, giving them a safe space to explore and learn: ."We won't always present a rosy view of America. That would be lying to teenagers, and they'd sniff us out immediately. But we'll always depict a vision for a country we believe can live up to its promise - the nation we imagine." What Tiller finds when he is hired as one of the puppeteers is more than just a paycheck; it's community, acceptance, family, love.
The story explores some sensitive topics, including drug use, drug abuse, PTSD, homophobia, suicidal ideation, and physical abuse. It treats of each of these topics with sensitivity and a gentleness that is honest and authentic. The story feels subversive but in small, subtle ways; as Tiller opines: "Sometimes radical gentleness can be the most subversive thing of all."
Despite the heartbreak he has had in his life and the challenges he has faced, Tiller's story always reflects joy: "Sometimes you have to choose joy because of the darkness and not in spite of it."
While the story is written as Tiller narrating his experiences through interviews for a documentary, the story is written in prose (not in interview format, like Daisy Jones and the Six). Zentner's interest in poetry is evident in the beautifully written prose; it is lyrical and atmospheric and draws the reader into the emotions of the story. Tiller's life story is an example of "how love, like apples, is a sweetness that emerges from improbable circumstances." And while the circumstances of this story were fictional, the characters and their stories and the historic backdrop all felt real. This one will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you in advance to the author and publisher for this advanced copy through NetGalley. I'm so privileged to have read this. If you loved Jeff Zentner's other adult novel, "Colton Gentry's Third Act," you'll love this one too. (If you haven't read Colton Gentry, what are you waiting for...?)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Love, Like Apples feels like Jeff took everything his previous teenagers needed (think Dill, Travis, Lydia, Cash, Delaney, CASH’S MOM 😭, Delia, Josey—not an exhaustive list) and said, I know exactly what they would have needed.
So he created Imagine Nation.
When young Tiller’s already tumultuous life is wrecked by his brother’s draft to Vietnam, he finds comfort in the most unlikely place- a church puppet program. So begins a dream of becoming a puppeteer.
And that dream takes him to NYC, where he joins the cast of a controversial new program called Imagine Nation.
I am overwhelmed with all I want to say to give this story its due justice.
This is the story of Tiller, growing up in a broken, grief-riddled home in small-town Tennessee and finding his place with the found family of the Imagine Nation team in NYC. It’s his love story, and a STUNNING one at that, but, ya’ll, it’s the story of a group of artists, of imaginations, who deeply want to give teens a safe place to exist.
And, the message at the heart of Imagine Nation creates the perfect foundation for the cast to build that same safe place for each other. Found-family gold.
“...where Sesame focuses a lot on basic learning…we would be placing greater emphasis on emotional and social learning. Teaching teenagers empathy and tolerance, presenting and giving dignity to experiences and stories that have lived in our culture’s shadow.”
I can think of no other writer who tangles together pain, grief, and brokenness with hope, joy, and possibility like Jeff. Love, Like Apples is raw and truthful, and that hurts…frequently.
But it also excels at reminding us there is so much beauty and joy, even when so much is ugly and hard. Jeff shines again, reminding us there are always more chances for goodness.
Listen, I know all the early reviews are warning you to have your tissues ready. Heed the warning, my friends. This was one where I had to repeatedly set the book down to collect myself before continuing.
It’s emotional, empathetic, and romantic. 100% everything I expect from a Jeff Zentner novel!
Thank you, thank you, thank you to @grandcentralpub & @jeffzentner for the early copy!
So he created Imagine Nation.
When young Tiller’s already tumultuous life is wrecked by his brother’s draft to Vietnam, he finds comfort in the most unlikely place- a church puppet program. So begins a dream of becoming a puppeteer.
And that dream takes him to NYC, where he joins the cast of a controversial new program called Imagine Nation.
I am overwhelmed with all I want to say to give this story its due justice.
This is the story of Tiller, growing up in a broken, grief-riddled home in small-town Tennessee and finding his place with the found family of the Imagine Nation team in NYC. It’s his love story, and a STUNNING one at that, but, ya’ll, it’s the story of a group of artists, of imaginations, who deeply want to give teens a safe place to exist.
And, the message at the heart of Imagine Nation creates the perfect foundation for the cast to build that same safe place for each other. Found-family gold.
“...where Sesame focuses a lot on basic learning…we would be placing greater emphasis on emotional and social learning. Teaching teenagers empathy and tolerance, presenting and giving dignity to experiences and stories that have lived in our culture’s shadow.”
I can think of no other writer who tangles together pain, grief, and brokenness with hope, joy, and possibility like Jeff. Love, Like Apples is raw and truthful, and that hurts…frequently.
But it also excels at reminding us there is so much beauty and joy, even when so much is ugly and hard. Jeff shines again, reminding us there are always more chances for goodness.
Listen, I know all the early reviews are warning you to have your tissues ready. Heed the warning, my friends. This was one where I had to repeatedly set the book down to collect myself before continuing.
It’s emotional, empathetic, and romantic. 100% everything I expect from a Jeff Zentner novel!
Thank you, thank you, thank you to @grandcentralpub & @jeffzentner for the early copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Love, Like Apples
by Jeff Zentner
Pub Date: Nov 3 2026
In the world we are facing today, I needed this book. It reminds us that your circumstances are not who you are. You choose what you want to be and you can choose to be the light for others in an otherwise dark world. Oh, my heart. I laughed, I cried, I morned, and I saw hope. Zentner did it again. 🥹
Tiller is being interviewed for a documentary about a small, but groundbreaking puppet show for teens he was a part of in the 70s. As he recalls his life leading up to the show and after, we see a motherless country boy who works tirelessly under his inebriated father on their family's apple farm. His saving grace: his gentle and kind older brother Smith. Then Smith is drafted into the war and Tiller's world is ripped apart. His father becomes even more distant and Tiller is left all alone. The only escape Tiller has now is the marionette Smith gave him and the beautiful reminder that you choose who you want to be.
Tiller, it turns out, is a talented puppeteer, and when he sees his big break to be on a new puppet show called Imagine Nation (think Sesame Street mixed with SNL for teens), he decides he no longer wants to be an apple picker; he wants to use puppetry to spread joy & help other kids not feel so alone.
New York can be a scary place (especially in the 70s) for a country boy, but with the Imagine Nation crew of misfits, Tiller finds his place and the love of his life. Imagine Nation is a revolutionary show that tackles tough topics teens face: loneliness, drugs, peer pressure, and *gasp* sexuality in an open and safe space. But can puppets really reach teens? The story comes full circle and reminds us the importance of being kind and seeing others.
Told through Zentner's beautifully lyrical wording, I highlighted so many favorite quotes and phrases my copy might as well be a coloring book. I also looked up so many historical events and places that are mentioned throughout the novel and learned that much more.
This is one of Zentner's adult novels. Do I think teens/younger adults could relate to it? Most definitely. In my opinion it is right up there with The Serpent King.
#lovelikeapples
#netgalley
by Jeff Zentner
Pub Date: Nov 3 2026
In the world we are facing today, I needed this book. It reminds us that your circumstances are not who you are. You choose what you want to be and you can choose to be the light for others in an otherwise dark world. Oh, my heart. I laughed, I cried, I morned, and I saw hope. Zentner did it again. 🥹
Tiller is being interviewed for a documentary about a small, but groundbreaking puppet show for teens he was a part of in the 70s. As he recalls his life leading up to the show and after, we see a motherless country boy who works tirelessly under his inebriated father on their family's apple farm. His saving grace: his gentle and kind older brother Smith. Then Smith is drafted into the war and Tiller's world is ripped apart. His father becomes even more distant and Tiller is left all alone. The only escape Tiller has now is the marionette Smith gave him and the beautiful reminder that you choose who you want to be.
Tiller, it turns out, is a talented puppeteer, and when he sees his big break to be on a new puppet show called Imagine Nation (think Sesame Street mixed with SNL for teens), he decides he no longer wants to be an apple picker; he wants to use puppetry to spread joy & help other kids not feel so alone.
New York can be a scary place (especially in the 70s) for a country boy, but with the Imagine Nation crew of misfits, Tiller finds his place and the love of his life. Imagine Nation is a revolutionary show that tackles tough topics teens face: loneliness, drugs, peer pressure, and *gasp* sexuality in an open and safe space. But can puppets really reach teens? The story comes full circle and reminds us the importance of being kind and seeing others.
Told through Zentner's beautifully lyrical wording, I highlighted so many favorite quotes and phrases my copy might as well be a coloring book. I also looked up so many historical events and places that are mentioned throughout the novel and learned that much more.
This is one of Zentner's adult novels. Do I think teens/younger adults could relate to it? Most definitely. In my opinion it is right up there with The Serpent King.
#lovelikeapples
#netgalley
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Where do I even start with the masterpiece that is Love, Like Apples? It’s an unbelievably moving, beautiful story of one of the kindest, gentlest souls to live in my thoughts.
Tiller grows up in the 1960s on a Tennessee apple orchard with an alcoholic father and an amazingly kind older brother who fills his life with love and teaches him about the power to choose who he wants to be. When Smith gets drafted into the Vietnam War, we all know some sadness is coming.
When Tiller finds puppetry and learns about it from an older couple in his town, it changes his life, and soon he finds himself in 1970s NYC working on a PBS puppet production aimed at teenagers, offering hope and love. He meets castmates who will become family, and also finds the love of his life.
Wow. I knew I’d love Love, Like Apples before I even started it, knew from the first chapter, knew throughout the book that it was going to be one of my favorites of the year, if not THE favorite. I love how the story is told as a documentary, as seventy-something Tiller is telling his story through an interview.
And Tiller. One of those characters you want everything good to happen for, how he deserves all good things and kindness and happiness, how he finds his way in the world and truly embodies all those lessons his brother taught him. I loved the idea of the show, teaching empathy to teens, meeting them where they are and not backing down from difficult topics, wanting kids to know they’re not alone. And a huge reminder of the power of art to heal, hope, love, help us through. Tiller and Julie together? Magic.
As if the idea and plot and characters aren’t enough, the writing is achingly beautiful. I reread so many passages just to relive the beauty of the writing and evoke all those feelings and savor the joy of reading this book. I don’t cry much, but I sure cried here, multiple times.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for my advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
Tiller grows up in the 1960s on a Tennessee apple orchard with an alcoholic father and an amazingly kind older brother who fills his life with love and teaches him about the power to choose who he wants to be. When Smith gets drafted into the Vietnam War, we all know some sadness is coming.
When Tiller finds puppetry and learns about it from an older couple in his town, it changes his life, and soon he finds himself in 1970s NYC working on a PBS puppet production aimed at teenagers, offering hope and love. He meets castmates who will become family, and also finds the love of his life.
Wow. I knew I’d love Love, Like Apples before I even started it, knew from the first chapter, knew throughout the book that it was going to be one of my favorites of the year, if not THE favorite. I love how the story is told as a documentary, as seventy-something Tiller is telling his story through an interview.
And Tiller. One of those characters you want everything good to happen for, how he deserves all good things and kindness and happiness, how he finds his way in the world and truly embodies all those lessons his brother taught him. I loved the idea of the show, teaching empathy to teens, meeting them where they are and not backing down from difficult topics, wanting kids to know they’re not alone. And a huge reminder of the power of art to heal, hope, love, help us through. Tiller and Julie together? Magic.
As if the idea and plot and characters aren’t enough, the writing is achingly beautiful. I reread so many passages just to relive the beauty of the writing and evoke all those feelings and savor the joy of reading this book. I don’t cry much, but I sure cried here, multiple times.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for my advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh my, oh my—this book is an emotional roller coaster. It’s such a tenderhearted love letter to the making of art, to found family, and to finding yourself along the way.
Tiller grows up in a small town in Tennessee. His mother died when he was a baby, and his father is an absent alcoholic. Thankfully, he has his wise, protective older brother, Smith, who loves him fiercely. But this is the late 1960s, and the Vietnam draft comes knocking.
Somehow, almost randomly, Tiller finds himself through puppetry. He sees a puppet show at church and is completely entranced. Growing up on an apple farm, he doesn’t know much beyond farming apples, but that chance encounter changes everything. Before long, he’s off to 1977 New York, where he finally finds his people, his found family.
I’m not even sure how this book will be marketed…romance? historical fiction?…but it is one of the most purely beautiful stories I’ve read. It’s coming-of-age, grief, friends-to-lovers romance, and a shining example of how art can save people. This is one of those books you have to put down just to cry.
When Tiller declares his love for Julie… wow. Some of the most beautiful prose I’ve read in a long time. If I wasn’t already married, I’d be stealing lines from this for my wedding vows.
I almost never read books written by men, but my goodness…Jeff Zentner is an absolute artist.
The book is written like a documentary about a 1970s puppet show called Imagine Nation. Think The Muppet Show, but aimed more at teenagers, helping them navigate life. It didn’t run long, but it built a huge cult following. Most of the narrative is Tiller looking back, telling the story of how it all happened, and it’s just… beautiful.
By far the best historical romance of 2026 and one of my favorite novels of the year.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. I can’t wait for everyone to read this when it comes out in November.
Tiller grows up in a small town in Tennessee. His mother died when he was a baby, and his father is an absent alcoholic. Thankfully, he has his wise, protective older brother, Smith, who loves him fiercely. But this is the late 1960s, and the Vietnam draft comes knocking.
Somehow, almost randomly, Tiller finds himself through puppetry. He sees a puppet show at church and is completely entranced. Growing up on an apple farm, he doesn’t know much beyond farming apples, but that chance encounter changes everything. Before long, he’s off to 1977 New York, where he finally finds his people, his found family.
I’m not even sure how this book will be marketed…romance? historical fiction?…but it is one of the most purely beautiful stories I’ve read. It’s coming-of-age, grief, friends-to-lovers romance, and a shining example of how art can save people. This is one of those books you have to put down just to cry.
When Tiller declares his love for Julie… wow. Some of the most beautiful prose I’ve read in a long time. If I wasn’t already married, I’d be stealing lines from this for my wedding vows.
I almost never read books written by men, but my goodness…Jeff Zentner is an absolute artist.
The book is written like a documentary about a 1970s puppet show called Imagine Nation. Think The Muppet Show, but aimed more at teenagers, helping them navigate life. It didn’t run long, but it built a huge cult following. Most of the narrative is Tiller looking back, telling the story of how it all happened, and it’s just… beautiful.
By far the best historical romance of 2026 and one of my favorite novels of the year.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. I can’t wait for everyone to read this when it comes out in November.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It's no secret that I'm a massive Jeff fan girl and that I would have done absolutely anything to get my hands on this book. I don't have the immense vocabulary of words needed to explain how much I adored every page.
I wanted to devour this in one sitting but due to life, I was forced to take it slow. And honestly? I'm thankful for that. When I wasn't reading this book, I was thinking about it. From the first page to the last, Love, Like Apples is enthralling. It's the earnest way Tiller moves through life. The unshakeable love he has for his brother, Smith. The way he loves boundlessly and with his whole self. The way that art, and the art of storytelling itself are represented.
I think every word Jeff writes is remarkable. He has an understated, humble way of presenting these stories. These characters who are so real and fallible and honest. His words are timeless and poignant and carry such weight. He manages to make
or do make
a story that's set in the seventies feel so immensely relevant today.
"But first, condemn a nation that
smiles upon sending boys to kill each other, but stamps out any expression of boys loving each other."
Like every one of his books, this one has carved its own spot in my soul so I can carry it with me always. Thank you @grandcentralpub and Jeff, you wonderful soul for this book.
Quiet. Beautiful. Timeless.
Love, Like Apples.
Pre order it. It's out in November. You won't regret it.
I wanted to devour this in one sitting but due to life, I was forced to take it slow. And honestly? I'm thankful for that. When I wasn't reading this book, I was thinking about it. From the first page to the last, Love, Like Apples is enthralling. It's the earnest way Tiller moves through life. The unshakeable love he has for his brother, Smith. The way he loves boundlessly and with his whole self. The way that art, and the art of storytelling itself are represented.
I think every word Jeff writes is remarkable. He has an understated, humble way of presenting these stories. These characters who are so real and fallible and honest. His words are timeless and poignant and carry such weight. He manages to make
or do make
a story that's set in the seventies feel so immensely relevant today.
"But first, condemn a nation that
smiles upon sending boys to kill each other, but stamps out any expression of boys loving each other."
Like every one of his books, this one has carved its own spot in my soul so I can carry it with me always. Thank you @grandcentralpub and Jeff, you wonderful soul for this book.
Quiet. Beautiful. Timeless.
Love, Like Apples.
Pre order it. It's out in November. You won't regret it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Now that people are beginning to read this, let me tell you where it comes from.
In the past, I’ve spoken of my books as love letters, and so here is an incomplete list of things to which LOVE, LIKE APPLES is my love letter:
People who choose goodness when all in their life points them elsewhere.
Boys who make each other better.
The elation and heartbreak of making art for teenagers.
Artists who aren’t cool.
Artists who are dangerous in the good way.
Artists who make art knowing that it will probably be lost to time.
Artists who venture out on the high wire to make daring art, knowing they may fall, and who fall.
Art that saves us by breaking our fall.
Small lives that become large through art.
Puppets and the people who bring them to life.
The green shoots that grow up after the fire of grief.
My wounded nation that loves war and despises gentleness.
Those with the vision to imagine my nation as a better place.
Christmas tree lots.
Making out in cars.
The great city of New York at its most grimy and electric.
Sunday afternoons watching leaves fall in Central Park
The night sky in Rugby, Tennessee.
Springsteen.
Guardian angels who ride Harley choppers.
Poets who make tables.
Women who swear in Italian.
The crunch of a perfect apple.
Love that emerges, like the sweetness of apples, from improbable circumstances. Love, like apples.
In the past, I’ve spoken of my books as love letters, and so here is an incomplete list of things to which LOVE, LIKE APPLES is my love letter:
People who choose goodness when all in their life points them elsewhere.
Boys who make each other better.
The elation and heartbreak of making art for teenagers.
Artists who aren’t cool.
Artists who are dangerous in the good way.
Artists who make art knowing that it will probably be lost to time.
Artists who venture out on the high wire to make daring art, knowing they may fall, and who fall.
Art that saves us by breaking our fall.
Small lives that become large through art.
Puppets and the people who bring them to life.
The green shoots that grow up after the fire of grief.
My wounded nation that loves war and despises gentleness.
Those with the vision to imagine my nation as a better place.
Christmas tree lots.
Making out in cars.
The great city of New York at its most grimy and electric.
Sunday afternoons watching leaves fall in Central Park
The night sky in Rugby, Tennessee.
Springsteen.
Guardian angels who ride Harley choppers.
Poets who make tables.
Women who swear in Italian.
The crunch of a perfect apple.
Love that emerges, like the sweetness of apples, from improbable circumstances. Love, like apples.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I absolutely love the 70s, puppets, and NYC—okay, that is a complete lie. I’m ambivalent (at best) on all of those subjects, but in the immortal lyrics of Carole King, “Where you lead, I will follow”. Trust Zentner to deliver a gorgeous, heartfelt novel that would leave me a blubbering mess. I just reread The Outsiders, and Tiller feels like Ponyboy all grown up. As much as I wanted to devour this book in one bite, it demands to be savored. Love, Like Apples is quietly beautiful. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY, repeatedly delivers line after line of reaffirming, soul feeding prose the way this man does. Major themes of this book: art and its ability to save lives “Making art is a call into the darkness. You can never know everywhere the echoes reach”(pg 369) (especially teenage lives), nontoxic masculinity (which our society needs more of), religion (losing it & seeking it in times of grief), found family, and the seasons of love (try not to sing that last line). “Joy is how the universe tells us it favors our existence” (Pg156).
This novel, as with his others, is an antidote to antipathy. The transcendentalist in him reminds us to seek healing in nature, and that there’s good in this world. A huge thanks to @netgalley @grandcentralpub @jeffzentner for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
This novel, as with his others, is an antidote to antipathy. The transcendentalist in him reminds us to seek healing in nature, and that there’s good in this world. A huge thanks to @netgalley @grandcentralpub @jeffzentner for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“My brother’s name is chiseled on the dark granite, and it vanishes back into the stone under the rain, as all quiet names fade from the world’s lips eventually” (Zentner).
Some books entertain you. Some books stay with you. Love, Like Apples by @jeffzentner did both.
This is a story filled with tenderness, longing, joy, heartbreak, and the complicated beauty of being human. Zentner has an extraordinary ability to create characters who feel less like fictional people and more like friends whose lives you are privileged to witness. I found myself slowing down as I neared the final pages because I wasn’t ready to let them go.
What moved me most was the novel’s deep compassion. It understands that love is rarely simple, that growing up often means carrying both hope and hurt, and that the people who shape us leave fingerprints on our hearts long after they’ve gone. There were passages that made me smile, passages that broke me a little, and passages that reminded me why stories matter in the first place.
This is the kind of book that lingers long after you’ve closed the cover.
My sincere thanks to Jeff Zentner and NetGalley for the ARC and the opportunity to experience this beautiful novel before publication. I can’t encourage you strongly enough to preorder this book now. I have! 💙🍎
Some books entertain you. Some books stay with you. Love, Like Apples by @jeffzentner did both.
This is a story filled with tenderness, longing, joy, heartbreak, and the complicated beauty of being human. Zentner has an extraordinary ability to create characters who feel less like fictional people and more like friends whose lives you are privileged to witness. I found myself slowing down as I neared the final pages because I wasn’t ready to let them go.
What moved me most was the novel’s deep compassion. It understands that love is rarely simple, that growing up often means carrying both hope and hurt, and that the people who shape us leave fingerprints on our hearts long after they’ve gone. There were passages that made me smile, passages that broke me a little, and passages that reminded me why stories matter in the first place.
This is the kind of book that lingers long after you’ve closed the cover.
My sincere thanks to Jeff Zentner and NetGalley for the ARC and the opportunity to experience this beautiful novel before publication. I can’t encourage you strongly enough to preorder this book now. I have! 💙🍎
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Gallery and NetGalley for this eARC.
I loved this book, and read it in a day, crying on and off for I'd say about a quarter of the book. If you've read Jeff Zentner's other titles, you know the emotion you're signing up for. It works for me, especially this title, which is so concerned with choosing softness and love in a world where that isn't always easy. As a girlie who loved Mr. Rogers, this spoke to me. This book is very much about found family, and a little ragtag group trying to make a mark (in this case, with puppets!)
That said, Forrest Gump was mentioned early in this book, and I could see how someone who did not enjoy that film might not enjoy this book. I think Zentner does a better job keeping this book focused on the characters, but we are also aware of History Unfolding. It stayed on the right side of the line for me, but sometimes only just (partly because at the end of the book I thought a character was going to make a reveal that would have been a little too pat, and I was glad it was a DIFFERENT reveal that made sense to me and to the narrative).
I have some other quibbles, but at the end of the day, this book made me feel, I didn't want to put it down, and I respected its big open heart. May we choose to be kinder.
I loved this book, and read it in a day, crying on and off for I'd say about a quarter of the book. If you've read Jeff Zentner's other titles, you know the emotion you're signing up for. It works for me, especially this title, which is so concerned with choosing softness and love in a world where that isn't always easy. As a girlie who loved Mr. Rogers, this spoke to me. This book is very much about found family, and a little ragtag group trying to make a mark (in this case, with puppets!)
That said, Forrest Gump was mentioned early in this book, and I could see how someone who did not enjoy that film might not enjoy this book. I think Zentner does a better job keeping this book focused on the characters, but we are also aware of History Unfolding. It stayed on the right side of the line for me, but sometimes only just (partly because at the end of the book I thought a character was going to make a reveal that would have been a little too pat, and I was glad it was a DIFFERENT reveal that made sense to me and to the narrative).
I have some other quibbles, but at the end of the day, this book made me feel, I didn't want to put it down, and I respected its big open heart. May we choose to be kinder.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ah, I do love a new Jeff Zentner story! He hits all of the notes of charming, poetic, quirky, and devastating. I loved the world of Imagine Nation, a hypothetical puppet show made for teenagers in the 70s that was too ahead of its time. Tiller is a lovely narrator and a lot more interesting than most of the puppeters I know. (I've met quite a few in my library career.) I couldn't put this one down, except for one bit that made me so sad that I had to pause for a day or so.
(I do have something unkind to say about the cover, so I'm putting it behind a spoiler tag so you have to opt-in to read it. )
(I do have something unkind to say about the cover, so I'm putting it behind a spoiler tag so you have to opt-in to read it. )
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“Sometimes radical gentleness is the most subversive thing of all.”
Radical gentleness shouldn’t feel revolutionary, but it does, and Love, Like Apples builds itself around that idea as its thesis. I hardly know where to begin with this book except to say I finished it in tears, completely overwhelmed by its beauty.
It’s not loud about what it’s doing which makes it hit even harder. It draws you in with such care and sincerity that you don’t realize how deeply it’s gotten under your skin until it’s too late to pull away.
It’s just…a profoundly beautiful book. The kind that lingers, and like all of Zentner's books it reshapes something in you. It's my favorite book I’ve read this year and I already know I’ll be evangelizing it the second it comes out on November 3.
Radical gentleness shouldn’t feel revolutionary, but it does, and Love, Like Apples builds itself around that idea as its thesis. I hardly know where to begin with this book except to say I finished it in tears, completely overwhelmed by its beauty.
It’s not loud about what it’s doing which makes it hit even harder. It draws you in with such care and sincerity that you don’t realize how deeply it’s gotten under your skin until it’s too late to pull away.
It’s just…a profoundly beautiful book. The kind that lingers, and like all of Zentner's books it reshapes something in you. It's my favorite book I’ve read this year and I already know I’ll be evangelizing it the second it comes out on November 3.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved this book and it's Behind The Music feel, that is for anyone who is old enough to know what Behind the Music and VH1 was! Tiller Loomis shares his part of a bigger story as part of an innovative puppet show in the late 1970s. It is a heart warming story of love, friendship, family and found family. It is a story of the growing pains of breaking boundaries and not always able to see the end result of how we effect others in a positive way. It gives hope to those of us who work to change the world one small action or mentorship at a time.
As someone who lived in the mountains of NC for 12 years, Zentner brings me back to may favorite part of the world....the Smokey Mountains.
As someone who lived in the mountains of NC for 12 years, Zentner brings me back to may favorite part of the world....the Smokey Mountains.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An absolutely stunning novel about love, loss, and the life-changing power of art. Set in a frame story around the making of a documentary, LOVE, LIKE APPLES tells the story of Tiller Loomis, from his childhood living on an apple orchard in TN with an emotionally-distant father and a wise, kindhearted older brother, to his life in 1970s New York City finding family, love, and purpose through puppeteering on the set of a television show called Imagine Nation. This is a quietly beautiful book that celebrates love in all its forms and reminds us how special and important art is when it reaches an audience that needs it most. A new favorite from a favorite author.
May 23, 2026
Just when I think Jeff Zentner couldn’t possibly write another phenomenal story that holds my attention and my heart from the first page to the last one, he proves me wrong. He is such a masterful storyteller. Love, Like Apples is hopeful and heartbreaking in equal measure. You can’t help but love the characters and hope for their lives to be happy, fulfilled and meaningful, and Mr. Zentner succeeds infinitely in this regard. I will recommend this book to so many fellow readers!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
As usual when reading Jeff Zentner, keep the tissues close! This is a slowly and fantastically developed story. I ended up just devoting a day to it because there was no stopping once started. The 70s setting makes it all that much more interesting, but as with all Jeff Zentner's characters, I will miss them. I hope we get to see them again as we do with his YA novels!
Thanks so much to Edelweiss+ for the advance copy!
Thanks so much to Edelweiss+ for the advance copy!
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