Was a little hesitant when I started it because it was in the racially turbulent times and I was wary of what violence there would be but there really wasn't any - story of a young girl and her relationship with boys, blacks, whites. lesbians and how their lives intertwined. Really loved this book for the relationships, very touching and how they all affected each other...

Good story about the intersection of lives - black, white, "queer", straight, catholic, protestant - in southern Mississippi in the 1950's and how those various categories don't actually mean very much when it comes to defining the people involved. A good look at how one's complicated past impacts their future choices and how one's personal "web of influence" is much larger than expected.

I must admit, I bought this book (used for $2) because the book jacket is simply gorgeous. Shallow, I know, but I like to let these impressions lead me where they will. A review I read of the book described Melinda Haynes' writing as "exquisite prose". Exactly! I found her descriptions delicious -- "... Who ever knew that brown could be such a rainbow..." LOVE that! A little research revealed that she was a artist (painter) first. Makes perfect sense! Some of the story lines spoke to me. Some didn't. I will also admit that I haven't finished it. I intend to. I hope she pulls it off in the end. Meanwhile, I remain fascinated with her as an author and envious of her ability to craft words and images.

hated the beginning, liked the writing style in the middle, didn’t like the end

The thing that delighted me about this book also nearly drove me mad with frustration at others. The language and descriptions are astonishingly rich, as are the characters, yet sometimes the density of the language gets in the way of the flow of the story. Nevertheless you have to admire the sheer originality of the writing.

When I first started reading this book I had a difficult time. The writer put a lot of information and introduction's, it was hard to make sense and put it all together. But I have to say please keep reading. Over half way through the book started clicking and it's a wonderful story! It's full of loge, heartache, realness, families and the power of love beyond all. It's beautiful and I'm so happy I finished it!

I slogged through 108 pages and gave myself permission to quit. I really tried to get into this story and I wanted to like it enough to read the whole thing, but I just couldn't do it. I began to dread even looking at the book because I didn't want to waste precious reading time trying to make sense of this book. There wasn't one character that I could connect with, let alone understand. There was so much going on that I couldn't keep track of who was who or what they were doing. Not for me. Hope someone enjoys it because I'm sure the author put her heart and soul into the writing of this story.

What a pleasant surprise! One of the best novels that I've read in 2023. Fully engaged with all of the characters to the ending. For me, Valuable, Even Grade, Enid, Canaan, Grace, Joleb and Jackson were all underdogs who became heroes.

Way too slow moving. The plot didn't make a lot of sense

If you’re looking for a book with a challenging, gripping storyline and beautiful writing, don’t bother with this book. I’ve learned from the last two books I’ve read that just because some famous person recommends it or it won an award, does not mean it will be good. Another book for the donation box.

I had this one around since 1999, probably bought it because it was an Oprah choice. Filled with quirky characters and some funny moments, it is also tragic. The book stands up over time as it delves into a small Mississippi town in the 1950s and the misfortunes and fortunes that affect both black and white residents.

Set in Alabama and Mississippi in 1956. This is the story of community where lives are interwoven and solid. It shows that even when you have nothing concrete, you can fill your days with ritual and ceremony and tasks that validate being.
I put off reading this for almost a year after getting it. I must have needed just the right time to have it told. There was heartache and lust and loneliness and satire and mischief. It did take almost 100 pages for me to get into the rhythm of the language, but the result was worth holding out for it.