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Half-Truths
It is 1950, and 15-year-old Kate Dinsmore wants to become a journalist. But her tobacco-farming father can't afford to send her to college. She devises a plan to move from rural North Carolina to her wealthy grandparents' home in Charlotte, in hopes of gaining their financial support. Now she has a new set of problems. How can she please her society-conscious grandmother and conform to her new classmates' lifestyles?
She meets Lillian, her grandmother's teenage maid, and despite their racial differences, they form a tentative friendship. While exploring her grandmother's attic, Kate unearths a secret that rocks her world and Lillian's, too. The shocking discovery reveals half-truths that threaten the girls' friendship. What will Kate do when she must choose between Lillian and her new society friends?
Through a mentorship with a newspaper editor, Kate realizes that journalism requires honesty. But the risks of truth-telling make Kate question herself. If she reveals what she has learned, what price will she pay?
She meets Lillian, her grandmother's teenage maid, and despite their racial differences, they form a tentative friendship. While exploring her grandmother's attic, Kate unearths a secret that rocks her world and Lillian's, too. The shocking discovery reveals half-truths that threaten the girls' friendship. What will Kate do when she must choose between Lillian and her new society friends?
Through a mentorship with a newspaper editor, Kate realizes that journalism requires honesty. But the risks of truth-telling make Kate question herself. If she reveals what she has learned, what price will she pay?
380 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2025
16 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Carol Baldwin
2 books68 followersSince I was a child I have loved reading and have maintained a journal off and on for more than 30 years. My book, "Teaching the Story: Fiction Writing in Grades 4-8" (Maupin House, 2007) reflects these twin passions of reading and writing. "If you want to write, read!" I am presently writing my first young adult novel, you can find out more under the "Half-Truths" tab. I love to read, listen to audio books, garden, teach writing, and am learning to golf. I co-publish the "Talking Story" newsletter with Joyce Hostetter, am a judge for the fiction contests sponsored by the Center for Writing Excellence, and enjoy teaching writing-- particularly to young people who love to write!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
July 3, 2025
Half-Truths by Carol Baldwin is a captivating fictional story about Anna Katerina, a 15-year-old girl living in Tabor City in the 1950s. During this era, the Ku Klux Klan (KKK), an organization that promotes discrimination against people of color, communists, and Catholics, is rampant across America. Anna, a country girl, dreams of more than just being a tobacco farmer's wife, as expected. She aspires to be a journalist, driven to uncover the truth and report it.
I appreciate the author's use of figures of speech, such as "coon age," "flown the coop," and "jitterbugging," which added flavor to the language style. The inclusion of new vocabulary, like "conniption," was also a delight. The chapter headings, featuring reports from The Tribune or The Charlotte Observer, helped track Anna's progress. What I admire most about this book is the meticulous research and effort that went into it, evident in the family tree, endnotes, resources, and acknowledgments. Although it took 18 years to write, the result is well worth it.
Half-Truths is about being brave, silencing opposition, and standing by one's convictions. Anna's journey from a country girl with seemingly unrealistic dreams to a determined young woman who overcomes criticism and judgment is inspiring. She learns that with courage and a commitment to the truth, she'll find like-minded individuals to support her.
Anna's character captivates me because of her ability to think for herself and not just accept whatever society throws at her. For that, this book is suitable for adults but most especially the young, so that they learn it's okay to question and seek answers to things that seem wrong in society.
I appreciate the author's use of figures of speech, such as "coon age," "flown the coop," and "jitterbugging," which added flavor to the language style. The inclusion of new vocabulary, like "conniption," was also a delight. The chapter headings, featuring reports from The Tribune or The Charlotte Observer, helped track Anna's progress. What I admire most about this book is the meticulous research and effort that went into it, evident in the family tree, endnotes, resources, and acknowledgments. Although it took 18 years to write, the result is well worth it.
Half-Truths is about being brave, silencing opposition, and standing by one's convictions. Anna's journey from a country girl with seemingly unrealistic dreams to a determined young woman who overcomes criticism and judgment is inspiring. She learns that with courage and a commitment to the truth, she'll find like-minded individuals to support her.
Anna's character captivates me because of her ability to think for herself and not just accept whatever society throws at her. For that, this book is suitable for adults but most especially the young, so that they learn it's okay to question and seek answers to things that seem wrong in society.
April 2, 2025
Half-Truths by Carol Baldwin is a special upper middle-grade/YA historical novel that captivated me from the first sentence. It is special because Baldwin writes masterful prose that can also be easily understood and enjoyed by young adults and because her characters have great voices and are alive on the page. I also found this novel to be outstanding because of the author’s meticulous attention to detail and her ability to fully ground the reader in the 1950’s time period and the rural and urban North Carolina setting. As a homeschool mom, I strongly recommend this book for every history curriculum. Young people will learn the importance of searching for and standing for the truth along with 15-year-old Kate Dinsmore, the plucky protagonist. I loved this book! I recommend it for all ages and for teachers, students, librarians, home libraries, and homeschool book collections.
April 19, 2025
I have to say this book. . .it gives me vibes of To Kill a Mockingbird and Anne of Green Gables. So many things in the story made you ponder and think about the history of our past. It carried weight of secrets and family conflicts, but also carry hope and forgiveness and healing. It teaches how to embrace and learning how to love when someone else is different. And also hold tight to the dreams of becoming who you want to be and not give up when others think otherwise. I enjoyed this story.
Thank you Monarch Publisher and Carol Bladwin for the ARC copy.
Thank you Monarch Publisher and Carol Bladwin for the ARC copy.
February 2, 2025
Kate Dinsmore, the teenage protagonist in this book you won’t want to put down, and the author, Carol Baldwin, have a lot in common. They both have a way with words and aim to use them to make the world a better place to live. In her first fiction YA novel, Baldwin has used her keen research instincts to give us an historically accurate and compelling picture of racial tensions in both rural and urban settings in 1950s North Carolina. Against a backdrop of KKK rallies and racial prejudice, Kate dreams of going to college and becoming a reporter. When it looks like her tobacco-farming family will likely not be able to afford it, her wealthy Charlotte grandparents agree to let her live with them to attend school. Kate knew living with her aloof and society-minded grandmother would be challenging, but she had no idea how the young, hired help in the household would change her life forever. Kate’s curiosity and observations soon lead to questions about her family tree. There are material items and story fragments in the house and among family members that don’t add up. Baldwin effectively uses the fragile relationship between Kate and her newfound cousin, Lillian, to illustrate the importance of truth-telling, especially across racial lines. I highly recommend this book to teachers and students for its accurate depiction of pre-Civil Rights and the Jim Crow era.
February 8, 2025
Half-Truths poignantly communicates the impact that both our silence and our words can have on relationships for building up or for tearing down.
Half-Truths gets across word wisdom. Lessons are learned from mistakes and introspection throughout the story. If what you are thinking is false, don’t say it. If what you are thinking is true, consider whether it is upbuilding before you say it.
Half-Truths gets across honest wisdom. The message it upholds is the process of becoming unwilling to sell what is priceless—one’s integrity—to gain popularity, approval, money, security, or advancement even in the face of frightening opposition.
Half-Truths gets across friendship wisdom by clearly and consistently contrasting the ugliness of dehumanizing domination alongside the beauty of compassionate connection.
The story’s protagonists grow in courage both as individuals and together. They mature in becoming not only willing but impassioned to stand for human dignity as they use their gifts, influences, and quiet confidence to take a stand and make a difference where it counts most. You can’t help but catch that passion as you enter their world.
Half-Truths gets across word wisdom. Lessons are learned from mistakes and introspection throughout the story. If what you are thinking is false, don’t say it. If what you are thinking is true, consider whether it is upbuilding before you say it.
Half-Truths gets across honest wisdom. The message it upholds is the process of becoming unwilling to sell what is priceless—one’s integrity—to gain popularity, approval, money, security, or advancement even in the face of frightening opposition.
Half-Truths gets across friendship wisdom by clearly and consistently contrasting the ugliness of dehumanizing domination alongside the beauty of compassionate connection.
The story’s protagonists grow in courage both as individuals and together. They mature in becoming not only willing but impassioned to stand for human dignity as they use their gifts, influences, and quiet confidence to take a stand and make a difference where it counts most. You can’t help but catch that passion as you enter their world.
March 24, 2025
Fifteen-year-old Anna Katherine “Katie” Dinsmore aspires to be journalist during a pivotal period of American history. The Korean Conflict has begun, Jim Crow laws are prevalent throughout the South, and the Civil Rights Movement is about to be born. Desiring a better education, Katie decides to leave her family’s tobacco farm and go live with her grandparents in Charlotte, North Carolina. Life with her grandparents, however, is totally different from Katie’s life on the farm. Things become further complicated when she meets her grandmother’s teenage servant, Lillian. The more they get to know each other, the more secrets they discover, and the more questions they have. What caused Katie’s father to become so estranged from his parents? What secrets is Lillian’s grandmother keeping from her? And what half-truths have caused family secrets to be buried for decades?
Half-Truths is told from Katie’s point of view, which allows the reader to see her internal thoughts and struggles as well as how her character develops. The novel flows seamlessly from chapter to chapter and keeps the reader engaged. Katie is constantly asking questions throughout the book, and her curiosity drives the story. Both Katie and Lillian must overcome their preconceived notions about each other, and their conflicts are realistic. Katie’s character develops the most, as she learns to be true to herself. I found Katie’s rocky relationship with her grandmother to be one of the most interesting aspects of the story, and the contrast between them is well written.
The theme of half-truths is prevalent throughout the book, as Katie and Lillian continually confront the half-truths they tell and the ones they have been told. They realize how harmful a “small lie” can be (252). While not explicitly stated, Katie and her family are Christians, and the novel contains Christian themes such as the danger of telling lies and biblical references such as the story of the Good Samaritan. The ending left me satisfied, as both Katie and Lillian are pursuing their dreams.
I recommend Half-Truths to teen and young adult readers ages fourteen and up, especially if they enjoy historical fiction. Half-Truths offers a window into a controversial time period, yet the lessons it teaches are applicable today.
Half-Truths is told from Katie’s point of view, which allows the reader to see her internal thoughts and struggles as well as how her character develops. The novel flows seamlessly from chapter to chapter and keeps the reader engaged. Katie is constantly asking questions throughout the book, and her curiosity drives the story. Both Katie and Lillian must overcome their preconceived notions about each other, and their conflicts are realistic. Katie’s character develops the most, as she learns to be true to herself. I found Katie’s rocky relationship with her grandmother to be one of the most interesting aspects of the story, and the contrast between them is well written.
The theme of half-truths is prevalent throughout the book, as Katie and Lillian continually confront the half-truths they tell and the ones they have been told. They realize how harmful a “small lie” can be (252). While not explicitly stated, Katie and her family are Christians, and the novel contains Christian themes such as the danger of telling lies and biblical references such as the story of the Good Samaritan. The ending left me satisfied, as both Katie and Lillian are pursuing their dreams.
I recommend Half-Truths to teen and young adult readers ages fourteen and up, especially if they enjoy historical fiction. Half-Truths offers a window into a controversial time period, yet the lessons it teaches are applicable today.
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February 9, 2025Half-Truths by Carol Baldwin is a moving coming-of-age story. Katie Dinsmore grew up in a small farming community in North Carolina in the 1950s. But Katie has dreams that are much bigger than Tabor City farm life.
She wants desperately to attend college and must find a way to pay for it.
She dreams of becoming one of the first female journalists in America. She wants to write serious stories that report the truth and change people’s lives.
To advance her dreams, Katie leaves home to live with her grandparents in Charlotte, NC. She is plunged into a very different world of wealth, culture, and social life.
Baldwin deftly weaves together Katie’s discoveries and subsequent choices. When Katie discovers a long-buried family secret she struggles to choose between maintaining the status quo for her family’s sake, or doing what she knows is right for all the people in her world.
Among her new Charlotte friends is Lillian, a light-skinned black girl who is part of the Dinsmore family’s “help." Such a friendship is forbidden. Secretly Katie and Lillian unravel clues to solve the family’s secret and learn that Lillian is a key part of it. Baldwin masterfully drops clues like breadcrumbs throughout the story to guide both the characters and readers to solving the mystery. In the process, Katie also learns how difficult it is to choose between her new cliquish friends, and her only true friend.
I grew up in the Deep South during the 1950s and 1960s. As I read this magnificently researched story, I knew first-hand the accuracy of Baldwin’s details—places, people, and prejudices. She writes about some tense and sensitive events and attitudes with respect and compassion.
As Katie unravels her family’s secret, we watch her also navigate her future and the complicated relationships with her family members. She learns painfully that doing the right thing isn’t often easy—but, it is always rewarding.
I highly recommend Carol Baldwin’s Half-Truths to students who want to learn how to think for themselves and make wise choices. Katie is a fictitious character. But her story of growth and change, and making hard choices is relevant to real readers faced with real choices today.
She wants desperately to attend college and must find a way to pay for it.
She dreams of becoming one of the first female journalists in America. She wants to write serious stories that report the truth and change people’s lives.
To advance her dreams, Katie leaves home to live with her grandparents in Charlotte, NC. She is plunged into a very different world of wealth, culture, and social life.
Baldwin deftly weaves together Katie’s discoveries and subsequent choices. When Katie discovers a long-buried family secret she struggles to choose between maintaining the status quo for her family’s sake, or doing what she knows is right for all the people in her world.
Among her new Charlotte friends is Lillian, a light-skinned black girl who is part of the Dinsmore family’s “help." Such a friendship is forbidden. Secretly Katie and Lillian unravel clues to solve the family’s secret and learn that Lillian is a key part of it. Baldwin masterfully drops clues like breadcrumbs throughout the story to guide both the characters and readers to solving the mystery. In the process, Katie also learns how difficult it is to choose between her new cliquish friends, and her only true friend.
I grew up in the Deep South during the 1950s and 1960s. As I read this magnificently researched story, I knew first-hand the accuracy of Baldwin’s details—places, people, and prejudices. She writes about some tense and sensitive events and attitudes with respect and compassion.
As Katie unravels her family’s secret, we watch her also navigate her future and the complicated relationships with her family members. She learns painfully that doing the right thing isn’t often easy—but, it is always rewarding.
I highly recommend Carol Baldwin’s Half-Truths to students who want to learn how to think for themselves and make wise choices. Katie is a fictitious character. But her story of growth and change, and making hard choices is relevant to real readers faced with real choices today.
February 6, 2025
Half-Truths is a YA book that captures the reader’s interest from page one. Written by Carol Baldwin, the book handles the tough topic of racism in a raw but tactful manner, intertwining fiction with actual historical events. The story takes place in the 1950’s and follows the life and thoughts of 15-year-old Katie Dinsmore, living in Tabor City, NC. She is confronted with the racial hatefulness of the KKK and soon realizes that people in her community and even her immediate family are divided on the issue. Her love of journalism and her hopes to one day go to college take her to live with her wealthy grandparents in Charlotte. She soon discovers that her upper-class grandmother has a dark secret about her former slave-owning grandfather that forces young Katie to make some big decisions as a young, aspiring journalist. Katie is confronted with having to navigate tense situations while at the same time dealing with her own half-truths. The author’s picturesque details and figurative language makes readers feel as if they are a part of the story. Although the heavy subjects of prejudices and family tensions are a main part of the book, the author adds the humorous antics of a goat named Josie and riddles from Katie’s brother to keep the story a bit lighthearted. I loved this book! The reader will learn a lot about not only the 1950’s racial tensions, but also about forgiveness and the strength of family. Half-Truths would be a great addition to any library!
February 21, 2025
This book...where do I begin? It has it all! It has an intriguing storyline, wonderful southern expressions that make you quite literally laugh out loud, complicated and fascinating history lessons broken down into digestible bits, and an irresistibly tenacious and heartwarming main character that is sure to win you over! I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, as did my teenage boys. That tells you something-it appeals to multi generations! A true gem of a book! It addresses difficult topics regarding race and segregation in a thought-provoking and non-intimidating way, making it suitable for kids and adults alike. It also delivers a powerful message about awareness, fairness, and forgiveness.
April 8, 2025
Great book! I love Carol’s writing. The characters all have great, distinct voices.
February 27, 2025
Half Truths is so well written! Carol Baldwin really shows juxtaposing attitudes on race in the southern culture in the 1950’s. She does it through the characters, bringing them to life. No preaching, no lecturing. The message comes across through the story telling. The author brilliantly researched the city of Charlotte, North Carolina where much of the story takes place. Class distinctions and the uncovering of family secrets draw the reader in. This book held my interest to the very end with strong characters and a strong voice. I’m looking forward to a sequel.
March 23, 2025
After finishing reading my ARC of Half-Truths, two words come to mind…good read! Set in the 1950’s segregated south, we meet Kate and Lillian, who have one pretty significant thing in common, that doesn’t come to light until midway through the book.
One of the reasons I rated this book a five, is because of Carol’s intricate attention to detail, descriptive language, and imagery which draws the reader into the page as if they were in the scene.
An example of this is when Kate and Lillian are secretly in the basement of a Black funeral home, and an NAACP meeting is being held upstairs, with people talking and walking around.
Another example is Carol’s describing a spider web and spider behind Grandmother’s ear when she and Kate are talking outside in the garden.
Overall, Half-Truths is a very well-written story that offers readers a glimpse into seeing how secrets held in the dark, always find the light of day.
One of the reasons I rated this book a five, is because of Carol’s intricate attention to detail, descriptive language, and imagery which draws the reader into the page as if they were in the scene.
An example of this is when Kate and Lillian are secretly in the basement of a Black funeral home, and an NAACP meeting is being held upstairs, with people talking and walking around.
Another example is Carol’s describing a spider web and spider behind Grandmother’s ear when she and Kate are talking outside in the garden.
Overall, Half-Truths is a very well-written story that offers readers a glimpse into seeing how secrets held in the dark, always find the light of day.
February 6, 2025
Half-Truths by Carol Baldwin Published by Monarch Educational Services
In her first novel, Carol Balwin portrays the racial segregation of the of the
1950s and the timeless peer pressures of teen years. As Ms. Baldwin tells the story through
Katie’s voice, the girl develops maturity and courage to speak the truth without malice.
There is growth and character development in Katie Dinsmore as well as Lillian,
Grandmother and other family members confronted with family secrets. Along with
interesting characters, Carol vividly describes the city of Charlotte as it was in the
1950s. Examples of her attention to historic detail are the chapter titles which are mostly
headlines of articles from the 1950s’ Charlotte Observer. Horace Carter, Katie’s hometown
newspaper owner and role model, is an actual figure in the history of Tabor City, NC.
Readers will be moved by the realistic descriptions of a KKK rally and the disinterment of
an African American cemetery. They will enjoy the antics of Katie’s pet goat, Josie, and dog,
Braccy, who were brought along to live at Katie’s grandparents mansion. Teenaged girls will
especially enjoy reading about the clothing styles, make up, and parties of the period. This
book is a great read for teens between fourteen and seventeen. It could be supplemental
reading for a literature or history course dealing with Southern segregation. The story does
deal with the issue of an adulterous relationship between a slave owner and his slave,
therefore parental guidance is advised for teens reading this novel. Ms. Balwin has chosen
to write about the heartache such actions cause sensitively and without graphic detail.
Readers may object to the use of the term “Negros” to refer to African Americans
throughout the book. Ms. Balwin explains her choice of the term, although offensive,
because it was the term historically used in the early 1950s. Half-Truths will inform,
entertain, and challenge readers to think about their own half-truths.
Reviewed by Jane Headley on her husband's account
In her first novel, Carol Balwin portrays the racial segregation of the of the
1950s and the timeless peer pressures of teen years. As Ms. Baldwin tells the story through
Katie’s voice, the girl develops maturity and courage to speak the truth without malice.
There is growth and character development in Katie Dinsmore as well as Lillian,
Grandmother and other family members confronted with family secrets. Along with
interesting characters, Carol vividly describes the city of Charlotte as it was in the
1950s. Examples of her attention to historic detail are the chapter titles which are mostly
headlines of articles from the 1950s’ Charlotte Observer. Horace Carter, Katie’s hometown
newspaper owner and role model, is an actual figure in the history of Tabor City, NC.
Readers will be moved by the realistic descriptions of a KKK rally and the disinterment of
an African American cemetery. They will enjoy the antics of Katie’s pet goat, Josie, and dog,
Braccy, who were brought along to live at Katie’s grandparents mansion. Teenaged girls will
especially enjoy reading about the clothing styles, make up, and parties of the period. This
book is a great read for teens between fourteen and seventeen. It could be supplemental
reading for a literature or history course dealing with Southern segregation. The story does
deal with the issue of an adulterous relationship between a slave owner and his slave,
therefore parental guidance is advised for teens reading this novel. Ms. Balwin has chosen
to write about the heartache such actions cause sensitively and without graphic detail.
Readers may object to the use of the term “Negros” to refer to African Americans
throughout the book. Ms. Balwin explains her choice of the term, although offensive,
because it was the term historically used in the early 1950s. Half-Truths will inform,
entertain, and challenge readers to think about their own half-truths.
Reviewed by Jane Headley on her husband's account
February 11, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed “Half-Truths” by Carol Baldwin. The book revolves around Katie Dinsmore, a young teenager with a dream of a future goal in Journalism. She realizes that Tabor City, SC will not be the best place for her to learn and study, and grow in this field. Katie has many interesting characteristics: strong-willed but polite, a goal-setter but flexible with friends, impulsive but ready to face the consequences due to bad choices, and questioning but very caring and loving.
Her choice to go live with her grandparents in Charlotte is made to give her a chance for a better education and possible help for her future college expensive. Her world is turned around with the 1950s happenings with the Ku Klux Klan, injustice and inequality, hatred, social standards and secrets.
There is a quote from Carol’s book that strikes me as a valid question many people asked during this turbulent time in history and are still asking in new scenarios. Katie states “ There is something wrong with a world in which a policeman is a Klan member and a White girl and a Black girl can’t have a simple chat.”
I love all the history that is mentioned and used throughout “Half-Truths.” I was reminded of many names of people and places that I have known, visited and enjoyed, as I was born and grew up in Charlotte, NC. Shopping at Ivey’s was a treat for us as we would ride the bus on Saturday morning, shop and eat uptown. I also had to review and remember when integration started in Charlotte, facts about Kelly Alexander, Charles Kuralt and Myers Park/Providence Road neighborhoods, and other venues.
The characters are so well developed that they reminded me of several people I knew and grew up with. I believe that Carol Baldwin’s extensive research, character development, and historical facts brings “Half-Truths” to the forefront as a true historical fiction. Now, Carol, how about a sequel?
Her choice to go live with her grandparents in Charlotte is made to give her a chance for a better education and possible help for her future college expensive. Her world is turned around with the 1950s happenings with the Ku Klux Klan, injustice and inequality, hatred, social standards and secrets.
There is a quote from Carol’s book that strikes me as a valid question many people asked during this turbulent time in history and are still asking in new scenarios. Katie states “ There is something wrong with a world in which a policeman is a Klan member and a White girl and a Black girl can’t have a simple chat.”
I love all the history that is mentioned and used throughout “Half-Truths.” I was reminded of many names of people and places that I have known, visited and enjoyed, as I was born and grew up in Charlotte, NC. Shopping at Ivey’s was a treat for us as we would ride the bus on Saturday morning, shop and eat uptown. I also had to review and remember when integration started in Charlotte, facts about Kelly Alexander, Charles Kuralt and Myers Park/Providence Road neighborhoods, and other venues.
The characters are so well developed that they reminded me of several people I knew and grew up with. I believe that Carol Baldwin’s extensive research, character development, and historical facts brings “Half-Truths” to the forefront as a true historical fiction. Now, Carol, how about a sequel?
February 5, 2025
Half-Truths is a dynamic YA historical fiction that spotlights a young woman's dream of becoming a journalist amidst the backdrop of racial tension in 1950s North Carolina. Baldwin's opening pages plunges the reader right into the chaotic turmoil of a KKK rally, doing a fantastic job of immersing you in the time period. Her prose and storytelling is authentic and illuminate what it was like to live in the 1950s through the eyes of 15-year-old Kate Dinsmore. Kate dreams of attending college to become a journalist, but with her parents unable to afford it, her only hope lies with her wealthy grandparents. To secure their support, she must abide by her grandmother's strict rules and act in a socially acceptable manner, putting her at odds with old friends and even the household staff. The story is rich with secrets, including concealed family ties. As Kate's search for a compelling story leads her to uncover truths in her "own backyard," she faces a pivotal decision: to do what’s right or remain silent, as her family has done for decades.
I love historical fiction, and this book is a true gem. Baldwin's authentic storytelling captivated me, and the use of "real" newspaper headlines at the start of each chapter added an extra layer of realism that enhanced the narrative. I learned a great deal from this book and could easily see it being included in school curriculums as a historical exploration of racial tensions in the 1950s.
I love historical fiction, and this book is a true gem. Baldwin's authentic storytelling captivated me, and the use of "real" newspaper headlines at the start of each chapter added an extra layer of realism that enhanced the narrative. I learned a great deal from this book and could easily see it being included in school curriculums as a historical exploration of racial tensions in the 1950s.
March 26, 2025
Author, Carol Baldwin, brilliantly weaves her YA novel around carefully researched historical events and personalities that will hook readers from page one. It’s the early 1950s in Tabor City, North Carolina, and the Ku Klux Klan is on the move. With the encouragement of Mr. Horace Carter, editor of the Tabor City Tribune, fifteen-year-old Katie Dinsmore dreams of becoming a journalist. Katie knows her tobacco-farming family can’t afford to send her to college so she convinces her parents to let her live with her wealthy grandparents in Charlotte, NC for a better education. As the chapters unfold, racial injustices felt in Black communities are brought to light along with Katie Dinsmore’s family secrets and half-truths. Katie is faced with fitting into her new life at her grandparents’ mansion, a new school, and making new friends. She wonders about Lillian, the teenage maid, with skin the color of sand and green eyes like Katie’s. When Katie finds papers in a hidden chest that reveal Katie’s great-grandfather was a slave owner, her journalistic instincts are piqued. A shaky friendship begins between Katie and Lillian as they work together to dig for the truth about their families. When Katie asks her grandmother about the past, old wounds are opened, and half-truths are exposed. After Katie betrays Lillian’s friendship, she is forced to look inward at her half-truths. With growing self-awareness, Katie learns who her true friends are and who is important in her life. This book is a winner!
April 12, 2025
What a stellar story. Carol Baldwin has made a volatile time in America’s history relatable to YA readers—talk about an eye-opener!
When the story begins, it’s 1950. Kate Dinsmore, a white 15 year old budding journalist is caught between the small tobacco growing town of Tabor City, NC where she grew up, and her grandmother's wealthy home and lifestyle, complete with black servants in the bustling city of Charlotte.
Back home, Kate is disturbed by the actions of the KKK and can't understand why the black community is being ostracized—or worse. She wants to speak out for the truth via the local newspaper, but fears the response from her white community.
If she has any chance of getting a journalism degree, moving to her wealthy grandmother's home in Charlotte is the answer. But, can she face new friends, live like a debutant and pretend racism is not present in their own backyard? Worse than that, what will happen if she uncovers the secrets of her family’s past?
Growing up as a northern white child in the 60s, I had no idea what was going on in the South. Until I read “Half-Truths” I continued to be isolated from the harsh realities of racial prejudice. This well-researched, compelling, and heart-wrenching YA historical fiction follows Kate as she comes to grip with her own prejudices and moves forward to tell the whole truth—no matter the cost!
“Half-Truths” has given me a personal in-depth look from the view of a relatable young MC, challenging my prejudices as a new resident of this beautiful state of North Carolina, where the story is set. Young or old, you don't want to miss this hard-to-put-down novel!
When the story begins, it’s 1950. Kate Dinsmore, a white 15 year old budding journalist is caught between the small tobacco growing town of Tabor City, NC where she grew up, and her grandmother's wealthy home and lifestyle, complete with black servants in the bustling city of Charlotte.
Back home, Kate is disturbed by the actions of the KKK and can't understand why the black community is being ostracized—or worse. She wants to speak out for the truth via the local newspaper, but fears the response from her white community.
If she has any chance of getting a journalism degree, moving to her wealthy grandmother's home in Charlotte is the answer. But, can she face new friends, live like a debutant and pretend racism is not present in their own backyard? Worse than that, what will happen if she uncovers the secrets of her family’s past?
Growing up as a northern white child in the 60s, I had no idea what was going on in the South. Until I read “Half-Truths” I continued to be isolated from the harsh realities of racial prejudice. This well-researched, compelling, and heart-wrenching YA historical fiction follows Kate as she comes to grip with her own prejudices and moves forward to tell the whole truth—no matter the cost!
“Half-Truths” has given me a personal in-depth look from the view of a relatable young MC, challenging my prejudices as a new resident of this beautiful state of North Carolina, where the story is set. Young or old, you don't want to miss this hard-to-put-down novel!
February 26, 2025
Author Carol Baldwin transports her readers to mid-century Charlotte and its surrounding areas during a time of tobacco fields, soda shops, and racial tensions. Kate Dinsmore, a 9th grader from Tabor City, NC, is more comfortable in her 4-H group than debutante circles. When the KKK becomes more prominent and controlling in her small town, she wants out. Inspired by a local journalist who risks his life and his family’s well-being to expose the evildoings of the hooded society, she sets her sites on college to become a journalist. But she realizes that the Charlotte schools would prepare her better than her current school. However, she must first convince her father to let her live with her grandparents, despite their estranged relationship.
With strong and distinct voices, Baldwin has crafted characters that offer a range of emotions, sensibilities, flaws, and grace. While Kate adjusts to her new junior high school, its newspaper staff, and her grandmother’s expectations to clean the country off her and prepare her for high society, she uncovers a family secret that brings her closer than expected to the family’s longtime staff.
The intricate plot carries the reader through historical events, fictionalized and based on truth, that provoke readers to question the choices they might make in similar situations. As events and relationships weave together, Kate shows strength and courage as she navigates between what others lead her to believe and what she believes to be true in her heart.
With strong and distinct voices, Baldwin has crafted characters that offer a range of emotions, sensibilities, flaws, and grace. While Kate adjusts to her new junior high school, its newspaper staff, and her grandmother’s expectations to clean the country off her and prepare her for high society, she uncovers a family secret that brings her closer than expected to the family’s longtime staff.
The intricate plot carries the reader through historical events, fictionalized and based on truth, that provoke readers to question the choices they might make in similar situations. As events and relationships weave together, Kate shows strength and courage as she navigates between what others lead her to believe and what she believes to be true in her heart.
January 15, 2026
In Half-Truths, author Carol Baldwin has brought to life the history of North Carolina in 1951, but as we all know things that happened in the past have a funny way of impacting our current lives ... and that's what Anna Katherine (Katie) finds out when she leaves her small-town tobacco-farm Tabor City life to live with her wealthy paternal grandparents in Charlotte hoping for a better education and opportunities to pursue her dream of college and a career in journalism afterwards. But there are secrets. And strings attached to the money. And did I mention the KKK? And the sexism of that era? Both are on full display in this well written historical fiction book with a 15 year old main character who is also navigating friendship challenges and her first time away from home.
When I heard about this book last spring I thought it sounded fascinating and I'm so glad I was able to get a copy. Thoughtfully written and unfortunately some of the racism feels like it is ripped from today's headlines instead of 75 years ago.
When I heard about this book last spring I thought it sounded fascinating and I'm so glad I was able to get a copy. Thoughtfully written and unfortunately some of the racism feels like it is ripped from today's headlines instead of 75 years ago.
March 1, 2025
As a former school librarian, one of my most important tasks was to choose books to add to the Young Adult section. Historical fiction was one of the favorites genres with many of my readers. While there were many books that took place during World War II or the Civil War, the period of pre-desegregation in the South of the early 1950s was not represented. Half-Truths beautifully fills that void.
Kate Dinsmore, a rising ninth grader, lives on a tobacco farm with her family near Tabor City, NC. When she witnesses the KKK parade through her small town, she is filled with an uneasiness that leads to questions. Looking to find answers, she visits Horace Carter, the editor of the town's newspaper. After sharing his thoughts with her, he advises that she should always ask questions.
Her natural curiosity and her excellent writing skills have often made her think that she would like to be a journalist some day. She also knows that she will need a college education for that career.
To be better prepared for college, she hatches an idea that her best option would be to go to high school in Charlotte, the big city. Because her wealthy paternal grandparents live there, she begs her parents to allow her to go live with them.
The reader moves with Kate to Charlotte, experiencing the huge changes she faces--learning to live with a grandmother who wants to civilize her farm girl granddaughter, struggling to find her place with all new friends, and uncovering a life-changing family secret.
With well-developed, believable characters, a detailed setting, and a fast-paced plot, Carol Baldwin's debut novel will be a welcome addition to Young Adult collections in schools and public libraries. An excellent read!
Kate Dinsmore, a rising ninth grader, lives on a tobacco farm with her family near Tabor City, NC. When she witnesses the KKK parade through her small town, she is filled with an uneasiness that leads to questions. Looking to find answers, she visits Horace Carter, the editor of the town's newspaper. After sharing his thoughts with her, he advises that she should always ask questions.
Her natural curiosity and her excellent writing skills have often made her think that she would like to be a journalist some day. She also knows that she will need a college education for that career.
To be better prepared for college, she hatches an idea that her best option would be to go to high school in Charlotte, the big city. Because her wealthy paternal grandparents live there, she begs her parents to allow her to go live with them.
The reader moves with Kate to Charlotte, experiencing the huge changes she faces--learning to live with a grandmother who wants to civilize her farm girl granddaughter, struggling to find her place with all new friends, and uncovering a life-changing family secret.
With well-developed, believable characters, a detailed setting, and a fast-paced plot, Carol Baldwin's debut novel will be a welcome addition to Young Adult collections in schools and public libraries. An excellent read!
February 11, 2025
The word that kept coming to my mind as I read this book was "courage." Not only narrator Kate's courage in tracking down and accepting family secrets, but author Carol Baldwin's courage in making Kate do so. The story opens with a gripping scene of open racial violence. When Kate moves from her parents' farm to her wealthy grandparents' home in Charlotte, she must also confront the covert violence of denial and silence. Baldwin shows us Kate's simplistic assumptions about Black families; then newly discovered cousin Lillian forces Kate to confront her own racism. Kate's growth is gradual, entirely believable, and not without pain -- as in the heart-wrenching scene when Kate witnesses the forced disinterments in a Black cemetery.
Baldwin's vigilant research shows in a million small details about daily life, language, and material culture. A satisfying story on multiple levels, and one that may well inspire readers to do their own clear-eyed digging into sometimes messy history.
Baldwin's vigilant research shows in a million small details about daily life, language, and material culture. A satisfying story on multiple levels, and one that may well inspire readers to do their own clear-eyed digging into sometimes messy history.
February 27, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed Carol Baldwin's Half-Truths. I had the pleasure of reading an advanced copy. Carol captures the place (North Carolina) and time (1950), making me believe that she was there. Through her characters' lives and experiences, she conveys culture, history, and feelings about societal changes, such as upcoming school integration, gradually taking place.
And yet this is a young teen girl's very personal story of her dreams and ambitions, as well as her unsettling discoveries about her own family's history. Changes occurring in her personal world and feelings mirror those taking place in society. I think teens and adults will enjoy reading Half-Truths and learning about what it was like to live in that time of change.
And yet this is a young teen girl's very personal story of her dreams and ambitions, as well as her unsettling discoveries about her own family's history. Changes occurring in her personal world and feelings mirror those taking place in society. I think teens and adults will enjoy reading Half-Truths and learning about what it was like to live in that time of change.
April 21, 2025
In mid 1960 my parents were transferred from Long Island to Atlanta. I was too young to remember, but the stories of racism my Mom told were horrific to say the least.
It’s 1950, small town NC “country” girl Katie growing up on a tobacco farm is horrified by the KKK and worried about her future opportunities. She decides to move to Charlotte to live with her grandparents and take advantage of a better education and social environment. Her grandparents are wealthy and have hired help in their Myers Park mansion. Her grandmother deeply concerned with status, appearance and proper behavior is tough on Katie. As Katie begins to make friends and be more comfortable she starts to build an unlikely relationship with the young black girl Lillian, working as a maid at the house. Interestingly, her attitudes are more aligned with Lillian than the majority of her school peers.
Family secrets start to unfold, her great grandfather owned slaves and seemingly took advantage of them.
Katie struggles with her new found secret, will she ruin family relationships and appearances?
Will she stand by her convictions and let truths out or give into societal pressures?
I fully appreciated this story and found myself researching the history of Charlotte neighborhoods and historical events mentioned by the author.
I myself moved to Charlotte from NJ 25 years ago. While it was nothing like the 50’s we definitely encountered some ignorant and racist mindset.
Definitely worth the read, especially with our own current events.
It’s 1950, small town NC “country” girl Katie growing up on a tobacco farm is horrified by the KKK and worried about her future opportunities. She decides to move to Charlotte to live with her grandparents and take advantage of a better education and social environment. Her grandparents are wealthy and have hired help in their Myers Park mansion. Her grandmother deeply concerned with status, appearance and proper behavior is tough on Katie. As Katie begins to make friends and be more comfortable she starts to build an unlikely relationship with the young black girl Lillian, working as a maid at the house. Interestingly, her attitudes are more aligned with Lillian than the majority of her school peers.
Family secrets start to unfold, her great grandfather owned slaves and seemingly took advantage of them.
Katie struggles with her new found secret, will she ruin family relationships and appearances?
Will she stand by her convictions and let truths out or give into societal pressures?
I fully appreciated this story and found myself researching the history of Charlotte neighborhoods and historical events mentioned by the author.
I myself moved to Charlotte from NJ 25 years ago. While it was nothing like the 50’s we definitely encountered some ignorant and racist mindset.
Definitely worth the read, especially with our own current events.
May 14, 2025
I love historical fiction, and Carol did an excellent job of dropping readers right back into a small southern town dealing with the fear of the Ku Klux Klan, and the effects of racial discrimination, segregation, and violence. And how one 15-year-old girl named Kate, who wants to be a journalist and doesn't understand how society can treat her friend and her family with so much hate, uses her writing to stand up and change society.
Readers get to see how Kate moves to big-town Charlotte with her rich Grandparents, hoping to get a better education. There, she sees the same racial injustice.
I love the beautiful language that Carol uses throughout the book. Like, "The pine trees lined up along the road look like soldiers at attention. That thought reminds me of the conflict in Korea. Lola Mae’s father is fighting on the other side of the world." I thought this sentence was a great way to tie in other things that were happening in the world while her town was dealing with their own turmoil,
I thought this sentence showed the strong connection and love of Kate had with her father. Daddy cuts off the radio and taps me on the shoulder. “What are you pondering? You got some pretty big thoughts behind those sweet green eyes.”
This sentence tells readers so much about her grandmother and the house she was moving into in Charlotte. It made me laugh, thinking about her grandmother's expression when she sees that Kate brought a goat and a dog with her: "My grandparents’ picture-perfect lawn is about to be trampled by two critters that will be as welcome as a swarm of mosquitoes.
The whole book is filled with wonderful writing, like this sentence, when she sees the graveyard caskets being torn out to replace the dead with new homes.
"The bulldozers’ buckets hang open and their sharp teeth wait to bite open the earth." See how Carol gets right to the point with only a few beautiful words.
Today, it is hard to imagine living in fear for your neighbors and being trepidatious to step in to help. What would happen to you and your family if you did? So, this is a much-needed young adult book for children and adults to read. Teachers will want their schools to add it to their libraries.
Even though the story deals with the horrors of what black people and white people had to overcome, it is also an uplifting story of things changing and the success of the struggle against prejudice and injustice. I highly recommend this to everyone. I couldn't put this book down.
Readers get to see how Kate moves to big-town Charlotte with her rich Grandparents, hoping to get a better education. There, she sees the same racial injustice.
I love the beautiful language that Carol uses throughout the book. Like, "The pine trees lined up along the road look like soldiers at attention. That thought reminds me of the conflict in Korea. Lola Mae’s father is fighting on the other side of the world." I thought this sentence was a great way to tie in other things that were happening in the world while her town was dealing with their own turmoil,
I thought this sentence showed the strong connection and love of Kate had with her father. Daddy cuts off the radio and taps me on the shoulder. “What are you pondering? You got some pretty big thoughts behind those sweet green eyes.”
This sentence tells readers so much about her grandmother and the house she was moving into in Charlotte. It made me laugh, thinking about her grandmother's expression when she sees that Kate brought a goat and a dog with her: "My grandparents’ picture-perfect lawn is about to be trampled by two critters that will be as welcome as a swarm of mosquitoes.
The whole book is filled with wonderful writing, like this sentence, when she sees the graveyard caskets being torn out to replace the dead with new homes.
"The bulldozers’ buckets hang open and their sharp teeth wait to bite open the earth." See how Carol gets right to the point with only a few beautiful words.
Today, it is hard to imagine living in fear for your neighbors and being trepidatious to step in to help. What would happen to you and your family if you did? So, this is a much-needed young adult book for children and adults to read. Teachers will want their schools to add it to their libraries.
Even though the story deals with the horrors of what black people and white people had to overcome, it is also an uplifting story of things changing and the success of the struggle against prejudice and injustice. I highly recommend this to everyone. I couldn't put this book down.
October 22, 2025
We are transported back to the 1950s South. Katie, our protagonist, sees the prejudice in the people around her as the KKK make their presence known in the area. She wants to be a journalist and has so many questions.
She ends up moving to her grandparents house in Charlotte so she can get a better education. Her grandparents are particularly well-off and have their servants. I like how this book doesn't shy away from hard truths of what it was like to live back then and how complicated relationships were.
Recommended for those who like historical fiction. Be aware that there are some tough topics in this book surrounding the ugliness of prejudice. But I also felt these issues were dealt with in an age-appropriate way for teens. This is a good conversation starter.
She ends up moving to her grandparents house in Charlotte so she can get a better education. Her grandparents are particularly well-off and have their servants. I like how this book doesn't shy away from hard truths of what it was like to live back then and how complicated relationships were.
Recommended for those who like historical fiction. Be aware that there are some tough topics in this book surrounding the ugliness of prejudice. But I also felt these issues were dealt with in an age-appropriate way for teens. This is a good conversation starter.
February 15, 2025
Carol Baldwin’s telling of the bravery and courage it takes to stand up for what is right rings true for people of all ages. Kate Dinsmore, a 15 year old in the 1950’s, finds it difficult to realize that her elders that she loves and respects do not always hold true to the Christian values she has been taught by them. Kate’s insights and revelations help the reader along their own journey to find out the whole truth about how they value others.
April 23, 2025
Hi Carol
Hi Carol,
I finished your book and absolutely loved it. Was a delightful read and we can all learn from spunky Katie, to pursue and stand up for what is right.
Thank you for your diligence in keeping with this project. Learned a lot about the city and history of Charlotte- that’s what I love about historical fiction. Loved the pictures at the end of the book and all the helpful information about this time in our country’s history.
Will you be doing a sequel???
Linda
Sent from my iPhone
Hi Carol,
I finished your book and absolutely loved it. Was a delightful read and we can all learn from spunky Katie, to pursue and stand up for what is right.
Thank you for your diligence in keeping with this project. Learned a lot about the city and history of Charlotte- that’s what I love about historical fiction. Loved the pictures at the end of the book and all the helpful information about this time in our country’s history.
Will you be doing a sequel???
Linda
Sent from my iPhone
April 2, 2025
Katie Dinsmore wants to be a journalist, and with her strong sense of social justice, it seems like the perfect career path for her. But it’s the 1950s in North Carolina, and when the KKK comes to her town, Katie learns that speaking out can be dangerous and divisive. And when Katie moves to Charlotte to live with her grandparents in the hopes of eventually being able to go to college, she uncovers more injustices—this time, in her own family. This story immerses the reader into the time period and you will agonize with Katie over how to best tell the truth. I love that Carol Baldwin doesn’t shy away from the difficult, messy conversations, and it’s beautiful to see Katie and other members of her family grow over the course of the story.
March 31, 2025
"Half-Truths" by Carol Baldwin is a historical fiction novel for teens and young adults, set in the 1950s. The story follows fifteen-year-old Kate Dinsmore, who dreams of becoming a journalist and often plays the role, even in her teenage years.
Determined to fund her college education, Kate has worked tirelessly since childhood. When she discovers that her grandparents are wealthy, she decides to move in with them, hoping for financial support. To convince her parents, she claims that Charlotte offers better educational opportunities.
However, Kate's father warns her that her grandmother is a private person and advises her not to dig into family secrets. He urges her to leave the past alone. But as Kate settles into her new home, she uncovers hidden truths. Read this story to find out who Lillian is.
If you enjoy historical fiction, this book is a must-read. The cover design is appealing, and the title fits perfectly. The suspenseful storyline kept me engaged until the very last page, and the well-developed characters made the reading experience even more enjoyable. Be sure to add this book to your collection!
Determined to fund her college education, Kate has worked tirelessly since childhood. When she discovers that her grandparents are wealthy, she decides to move in with them, hoping for financial support. To convince her parents, she claims that Charlotte offers better educational opportunities.
However, Kate's father warns her that her grandmother is a private person and advises her not to dig into family secrets. He urges her to leave the past alone. But as Kate settles into her new home, she uncovers hidden truths. Read this story to find out who Lillian is.
If you enjoy historical fiction, this book is a must-read. The cover design is appealing, and the title fits perfectly. The suspenseful storyline kept me engaged until the very last page, and the well-developed characters made the reading experience even more enjoyable. Be sure to add this book to your collection!
April 10, 2025
A breathtaking and heartfelt historical novel about a girl who wants to be a reporter in 1950s North Carolina. The story and the setting feel very well researched and historically accurate and the characters are very well rounded and relatable. (I especially love the friendship between Lillian and Katie. Very sweet.)
It is well written and flows well, and it deals with hard issues in a thoughtful and intelligent way.
I would definently recommend this to fans of historical fiction, or even those who merely enjoy a good story, regardless of genre. Half-Truths is captivating, heartfelt and refreshingly honest. Five stars for sure!
It is well written and flows well, and it deals with hard issues in a thoughtful and intelligent way.
I would definently recommend this to fans of historical fiction, or even those who merely enjoy a good story, regardless of genre. Half-Truths is captivating, heartfelt and refreshingly honest. Five stars for sure!
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