What happens when a novel asks not only what we believe, but where those beliefs come from and who gets to shape them? Once the Kudzu Climbs is a literary novel by Terence Jordan, set in Birmingham, Alabama, and published by The Candler Off Candler.
What is Once the Kudzu Climbs about?
The story follows intersecting voices confronting questions of faith, identity, music, ambition and power. Its Birmingham setting is part of a broader exploration of community and of the stories people inherit, challenge and tell about themselves. Readers interested in contemporary Southern literary fiction, ideas about belonging and narratives told through multiple perspectives may find a connection here.
The title evokes kudzu, a plant associated with Southern landscapes, as an image for things that grow, spread and become difficult to separate from what lies beneath them.
What is the audio companion?
Once the Kudzu Climbs is paired with an original 25-track audio companion of music, poetry and performance. It is designed to accompany moments in the written narrative, offering another way to experience the themes and voices. It is not an audiobook or a substitute for reading the novel.
As of October 12, 2026, the first six tracks are available to preview. The remaining tracks are scheduled for release by the novel's publication date, October 27, 2026. Preview what's available through the official Kudzu Audio Companion.
How does a reader use the music?
The paperback includes access information and a QR code for the companion experience. You can read the book normally, or pause when you reach a music or poetry cue to listen on your phone. The written story still stands on its own. The companion creates an optional connection between the page and the original performances.
Paperback publication and preorder details
Publication date: October 27, 2026.
Format: Matte paperback, 5 × 8 inches, 248 pages.
Author: Terence Jordan.
Publisher: The Candler Off Candler.
ISBN: 979-8-9979064-0-5.
Direct paperback preorder price: $16.99 before applicable taxes and shipping.
The book is a preorder: publication on October 27 is not a promise of release-day delivery. Direct-store copies ship after our first print shipment arrives; the product page explains the current preorder terms.
For literary readers and book clubs
Readers who enjoy discussions about narrative perspective, the relationship between music and culture, and the complexity of personal belief can find starting points in this novel. For a book club or bookstore that would like to learn more, our team can provide publication details and a synopsis through hello@thecandleroffcandler.com. The paperback is distributed through IngramSpark for trade ordering, subject to retailer systems and availability.
Explore or preorder Once the Kudzu Climbs. You can also preview the audio companion before deciding.