Sweet Tea, Fried Chicken, and Lazy Dogs: Reflections on North Carolina Life

by Bill Thompson

From back cover: For years now, Bill Thompson has amused readers of Our State magazine with his delightful and folksy column, "Front Porch Stories." Now, this beloved writer and speaker from Columbus County, North Carolina, presents a collection of essays that further explores his down home roots and the people who shaped him into the character he is today. More than 55 essays touch on his observations and treasured memories, including food, farming, music, family, and neighbors. These hilarious, insightful, commentaries celebrate the essence of rural and small-town life in North Carolina.

158 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2003

Reviews

[Bob · Rating 2 out of 5]

This collection of essays on NC just didn't do it for me. Mr. Thompson is a good writer and many of his descriptions were wonderful. These essays were written for Our State Magazine, I believe, and while they are fine, they are also predictable. Each one is approximately the same length...I get it...it has to be a specific amount for publication. But, the pattern he sticks to wore thin easily. Great openings, some details surrounding the basic gist of the story, then an abrupt ending followed by a punchline. Once I noticed this pattern, that's all it became to me. I would definitely like to read more of his work, maybe some things that give him the chance to go into the detail that he's very good at writing.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Quick read and many interesting articles.

[Lisa Horne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good if you enjoy stories about small towns in North Carolina.