The Dry Grass of August
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Book Overview
In this beautifully written debut, Anna Jean Mayhew offers a riveting depiction of Southern life in the throes of segregation, what it will mean for a young girl on her way to adulthood--and for the woman who means the world to her. . . On a scorching day in August 1954, thirteen-year-old Jubie Watts leaves Charlotte, North Carolina, with her family for a Florida vacation. Crammed into the Packard along with Jubie are her three siblings, her mother, and the family's black maid, Mary Luther. For as long as Jubie can remember, Mary has been there--cooking, cleaning, compensating for her father's rages and her mother's benign neglect, and loving Jubie unconditionally. Bright and curious, Jubie takes note of the anti-integration signs they pass, and of the racial tension that builds as they journey further south. But she could never have predicted the shocking turn their trip will take. Now, in the wake of tragedy, Jubie must confront her parents' failings and limitations, decide where her own convictions lie, and make the tumultuous leap to independence. . . Infused with the intensity of a changing time, here is a story of hope, heartbreak, and the love and courage that can transform us--from child to adult, from wounded to indomitable.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0758254091
ISBN13:9780758254092
Release Date:April 2011
Publisher:Kensington Publishing Corporation
Length:289 Pages
Weight:0.68 lbs.
Dimensions:0.9" x 5.4" x 8.2"
Related Subjects
Contemporary Domestic Life Fiction Genre Fiction Historical Literature & Fiction Women's FictionCustomer Reviews
4 ratings
What Great Book!
Published by Millie Neu , 1 year ago
“Dry Grass Of August “ one of those books that you can’t let go until the very end! What vivid writer took me into the South with its history of an era that was harsh among unjust times. A lesson well taught that the human spirit of kindness can be spread across generations. All it takes is just one jewel of a young child to change the minds of others! Read it you will remember the main character!
A Favorite
Published by VJaneF , 5 years ago
I love to read. Sometimes books are predictable and can be ho-hum and disappointing. Not so this one. A wonderfully written story with interesting characters and places. You live with them from beginning to end. Just excellent!
Execellent story
Published by Jodi , 5 years ago
This book was written so well! It pulls you in from page one and you can't put it down. I shared with my mother who loved it aswell as a few friends. Great read.
A stroy of true love no matter who you are.
Published by Judi Burns , 5 years ago
Thirteen year old Jubie Watts lives in a time of racial division. Jubie's family along with her black maid, take a car trip across to Florida and the experiences she encounters not only tear at her heart but will tear yours as well.
There is a lot of love in this story that will last a long time within you as you read about about Jubie's journey with Mary.
Thank you, Anna Jean Mayhew, for sharing your talent with all of us. I look forward to reading more of your work.
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