Reading On Topic: Southern Dreaming
Snowy
weather and cold temperatures mean that winter is truly here, and
along with it comes the holiday rush and end-of-the year tasks. My
solution to December's stress? Good escape reading that transports me to
more temperate climates.
Today's Reading On Topic
takes us to the American South. The adult books mix Southern charm with
family drama, and the novels for younger readers are action packed.
Southern Drama
Reunion by Hannah Pittard (Grand Central Publishing, 9781455553617, 2014) Setting:
Atlanta. When Kate learns her father has died, she meets her brother and
sister in Atlanta to settle the estate. Complicating matters are her
father's many failed marriages and her clan of half-siblings. Told from
Kate's point of view, this novel explores family, self-discovery, and
forgiveness. Lookaway, Lookaway by Wilton Barnhardt (St. Martin's Press, 9781250020833, 2013) Setting:
Charlotte, NC. Spanning ten years in the lives of the prominent Jarvis-Johnston family, this
novel focuses on the dark, hidden side of several generations of relatives. Although there seems to be no bottom to the well of
family sins, this Southern Gothic story is both sympathetic and
entertaining. Family dysfunction at its best.
Trouble in Florida
Skink--No Surrender by Carl Hiaasen (Knopf Books for Young Readers, 9780375870514, 2014) Setting:
Florida. When fourteen-year-old Richard's teenage cousin Malley runs
off with an older guy she met online, he teams up with Skink,
ex-governor of Florida, on a road-trip rescue chase across the state.
This crazy adventure, with its underlying environmental message and
quirky hero, is great fun for readers of all ages. On the Edge by Allison Van Diepen (HarperTeen, Hardcover, 9780062303448, 2014) Setting:
Miami. On the way home from celebrating her acceptance into Florida
State University, Maddie Diaz witnesses a gang-related murder of a
homeless man. After being granted protection, Maddie agrees to testify,
despite the very real danger. This thriller-romance features great
characters and explores ethical issues, making choices, and working hard
for a better future.
11 comments:
Lookaway, Lookaway was one of my favorites this year.
I loved Reunion and have Lookaway, Lookaway on my shelf!
We think it's cold here in the south as well but you'd probably laugh at our temperatures. I haven't read any of those books. :(
Really enjoyed Lookaway Lookaway, the scene at the Christmas table was one of the funniest things I've read!
"Family dysfunction at its best." ... SOLD!
I Really want to read Lookaway, Lookaway!
I love me some Southern fiction! I loved Reunion...one of my favorite of the year and have Lookaway, Lookaway on my TBR list.
Hah! I'd rather physically escape! LOL
I'm more of a cool-weather person, so I won't be looking for escape until Feb. On The Edge sounds good!
I listened to and liked Reunion. I've got Lookaway on the stacks and think I would like On The Edge.
they all sounds good and i am a huge fan of Hiaasen
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