Yes, 'Our Souls at Night' by Kent Haruf is set in a small - town rural area which could be similar to an Iowa farm setting. It focuses on the relationship between two older people, and while not strictly about farming, it gives a good sense of the rural life that often surrounds Iowa farms. There's also 'The Bridges of Madison County' which is set in Iowa and has elements related to the rural landscape and the people living there, which can be associated with Iowa farms.
They tend to depict the harshness and beauty of rural life. The changing seasons play a big part in the narrative as they directly affect farming activities. The novels may also show the isolation of farm life at times, but also the strong community spirit that exists among farmers. For instance, neighbors coming together during harvest time or in times of hardship like a drought or a flood.
The distance from Williams, Iowa to Story City, Iowa is around 40 miles. You can get there in less than an hour by car, depending on traffic and the roads you choose.
For novels similar to Xianhu Farm, one could refer to the following types:
1. Fantasy novels: These novels usually use magic, myths, legends, and other elements as the main content. There is often a powerful protagonist who eventually becomes an invincible existence through constant adventures and battles.
2. Cultivation novels: Cultivation novels usually tell the story of the protagonist obtaining powerful strength through cultivation, practicing various spells and skills, and exploring the secrets of the universe and the world.
3. Science fiction: Science fiction novels usually focus on future technology and alien creatures. The protagonist will usually explore the unknown and achieve all kinds of wonderful things with the help of technology and alien creatures.
4. Wuxia novels: Wuxia novels usually focus on Jianghu grudges, Wuxia skills, and martial arts as the main elements. The protagonist is usually a chivalrous person who grows up and fights in Jianghu.
Fantasy novels usually use magic, myths, legends and other elements as the main elements. The protagonist usually realizes all kinds of wonderful things by exploring the mysterious world.
I hope these types will be helpful. I wish you a happy reading!
One main cause could be low - paying jobs. Many people in Iowa City might be working in industries that pay minimum wage or just slightly above. For example, in the service sector, workers like waiters or cleaners don't earn enough to support a family.