This book is just like sitting at the kitchen table, listening to the grown-ups tell stories about all the people we knew. It's not that Southerners are malicious, by and large, with theirvgossip. They just can't help but love a good story, particularly one that reveals human nature. The entire book is a set of stories about an important family in town and how their lives affected everyone.

The author has a strong voice and a good ear for the sounds of North Carolina. The book is funny with unique characters who are also touchingly human. A very good read.