I loved this book.
From the first page to the last it was interesting and engaging.
The author writes it using the terms and
pronunciations of the area and culture which helps to immerse the reader in the story.
There is an historical note prefacing the book that was
extremely informative.
The story is set in the Appalachian Mountains in the late
1800’s and begins with a tragedy. Worie’s mother has just committed
suicide and left her to take care of the rest of her disfunctional family. Worie is confused and conflicted about her
feelings for her mother, whom she thought was the most selfless and “a givin
woman”, how she would suddenly turn selfish. By
the end of the story she will learn the reasons behind her action.
Worie ends up dealing with her older brother who seems to
have no conscience, another brother who is an alcoholic and an ever increasing number
of orphans that come her way.
The author deals with a number of issues including greed, poverty,
adoption, addiction, suicide, racism to name just a few.
There is also a thread of mystery woven through the story.
This is from the publisher’s website:
“In the face of overwhelming obstacles, she'll need courage, grit, and a tender heart
Worie Dressar is seventeen years old when influenza and typhoid ravage her Appalachian Mountain community in 1877, leaving behind a growing number of orphaned children with no way to care for themselves. Worie's mother has been secretly feeding several of these little ones on Sourwood Mountain. But when tragedy strikes, Worie is left to figure out why and how she was caring for them.
Plagued with two good-for-nothing brothers--one greedy and the other a drunkard--Worie must fight to save her home and the children now in her begrudging care. Along the way, she discovers the beauty of unconditional love and the power of forgiveness as she cares for all of Momma's children.”
Worie’s idea of what her mother has left behind changes by
the end of the story. She realizes that ultimately,
God is in control, even through the most troublesome times.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell
and Baker
Publishing Group through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Publishing Group through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
