The story takes
place
in the years of the Second World War in the Mississippi Delta. It's
told in multiple voices, which gives us insight into a number of
characters, all of them wrestling with the lot fate has dealt them.Two returning soldiers both struggle with what the war has done to them--one white, one black. The black soldier has actually been treated better as a soldier in Europe than he will ever be in the South of the 1940s.
The black soldier's family, sharecroppers, wrestle with the indignities forced on them in that era (leaving stores by back doors, taking what's left over of virtually everything).
The wife of the land owner (and they are not rich either) is college-educated but must live in a shack when her husband loses their potential house to a sharper bidder. Their marriage is not an easy one.
All of these characters have noble moments and lesser ones. This is a sad book but one that will stay with you. Netflix made a good movie of it too.
5 comments:
I'd heard of the Netflix film, but not read the book, Patti. I'm glad you found it engaging.
How much does it feel like the better kind of book that would be a paperback original ca. 1950, I wonder...a bit like the likes of SOUNDER, as well.
Sounds intriguing, Patti, thanks for the recommendation! We'll also have to add the film to the Netflix cue. Also sounds like the book has themes that would easily resonate today.
Yes, sadly timeless glimpses of life.
I am interested in reading this book now, having read your thoughts on it. I am hoping it is not too sad. And then maybe give the netflix film a try.
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