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Trueluck Summer
A hopeful grandmother. A sassy young girl. Their audacious summer stunt could change their southern town forever.
Charleston, 1964. Ida Trueluck is still adjusting to life on her own. Moving into her son's house creates a few family conflicts, but the widow's saving grace is her whip-smart granddaughter Trudy. Ida makes it her top priority to give the girl a summer she'll never forget.
When a runaway truck nearly takes her life, Trudy makes fast friends with the boy who saves her. But since Paris is black, the racism they encounter inspires Trudy's surprising summer mission: to take down the Confederate flag from the South Carolina Statehouse. And she knows she can't do it without the help of her beloved grandmother.
With all of Southern society conspiring against them, can Trudy, Ida, and their friends pull off the impossible?
Trueluck Summer is a Southern historical women's fiction novel set in a time of great cultural change. If you like courageous characters, heartwarming humor, and inspirational acts, then you'll love Susan Gabriel's captivating tale.
Charleston, 1964. Ida Trueluck is still adjusting to life on her own. Moving into her son's house creates a few family conflicts, but the widow's saving grace is her whip-smart granddaughter Trudy. Ida makes it her top priority to give the girl a summer she'll never forget.
When a runaway truck nearly takes her life, Trudy makes fast friends with the boy who saves her. But since Paris is black, the racism they encounter inspires Trudy's surprising summer mission: to take down the Confederate flag from the South Carolina Statehouse. And she knows she can't do it without the help of her beloved grandmother.
With all of Southern society conspiring against them, can Trudy, Ida, and their friends pull off the impossible?
Trueluck Summer is a Southern historical women's fiction novel set in a time of great cultural change. If you like courageous characters, heartwarming humor, and inspirational acts, then you'll love Susan Gabriel's captivating tale.
- GenresFiction
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2020
524 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
About the author
Susan Gabriel
15 books194 followersSusan Gabriel is an acclaimed southern author who lives in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Her novels, The Secret Sense of Wildflower (a Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2012) and Temple Secrets (2015) are Amazon and Nook #1 bestsellers.
Find out more about Susan and her other novels at www.SusanGabriel.com.
Easiest place to contact:
Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/SusanGabriel...
Find out more about Susan and her other novels at www.SusanGabriel.com.
Easiest place to contact:
Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/SusanGabriel...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
May 30, 2017
After finishing A Trueluck Summer, I realized that this book was meant more for a younger audience. Still, despite that, I've enjoyed it very much myself, being a 50-plus avid reader.
Set in the South, in the 1960ies, this is the compelling story of a smart twelve year old girl, who wants to bring change to her hometown of Charleston, SC. Indeed, after being saved from a barreling truck that would have run her over, Trudy Trueluck comes to realize that circumstances in life are not the same for her savior, the young black boy, Paris. Both teens, Trudy and Paris, have the same age and they become fast friends without prejudice, and together with Trudy’s childhood friend, Velvet, and Trudy’s grandmother, Ida Trueluck, she intends to rebel against the racial discrimination that is so overwhelmingly present all around her. I leave it up to you to discover what the 4 of them are up to during that summer of 1964.
What struck me the most was the purity of thoughts, and the innocence of the characters. It was very welcome and, also refreshing to observe what went on in these unspoiled young minds. I loved these kids and their grandma, and look back with some degree of nostalgia to a time when things were simpler (no internet); kids being outside all the time, being imaginative, but so much harder too, as segregation was still rampant everywhere.
Set in the South, in the 1960ies, this is the compelling story of a smart twelve year old girl, who wants to bring change to her hometown of Charleston, SC. Indeed, after being saved from a barreling truck that would have run her over, Trudy Trueluck comes to realize that circumstances in life are not the same for her savior, the young black boy, Paris. Both teens, Trudy and Paris, have the same age and they become fast friends without prejudice, and together with Trudy’s childhood friend, Velvet, and Trudy’s grandmother, Ida Trueluck, she intends to rebel against the racial discrimination that is so overwhelmingly present all around her. I leave it up to you to discover what the 4 of them are up to during that summer of 1964.
What struck me the most was the purity of thoughts, and the innocence of the characters. It was very welcome and, also refreshing to observe what went on in these unspoiled young minds. I loved these kids and their grandma, and look back with some degree of nostalgia to a time when things were simpler (no internet); kids being outside all the time, being imaginative, but so much harder too, as segregation was still rampant everywhere.
October 19, 2016
A book for everyone! Beautifully written story of relationships and the courage to do what is right! Although set in the 60's the story is so timely for today! The story-line is so intriguing that I wanted to stay up all night to finish. As a child of the 60's in the South, I recall the turmoil of the time. As a grandmother, I especially loved the relationship between Ida, the grandmother and Trudy, the granddaughter. The setting of Charleston, my favorite city was an added bonus!
October 16, 2016
Fabulous, Must Read
This is a book for middle schoolers, grandparents, anyone who has an interest in the changes in the South in the mid-60's. It's poignant yet heart-warming, written from the view of a 12 yr old headstrong white girl, Trudy and her 70 yr. old grandmother, Ida, as well as Vel, Trudy's friend and Paris, the "colored" boy who saved Trudy. Susan Gabriel’s descriptive writing places you "in the story," the reader can visualize not only the setting of the story but he emotions of the characters. I couldn't put it down, read it all in one sitting!
This is a book for middle schoolers, grandparents, anyone who has an interest in the changes in the South in the mid-60's. It's poignant yet heart-warming, written from the view of a 12 yr old headstrong white girl, Trudy and her 70 yr. old grandmother, Ida, as well as Vel, Trudy's friend and Paris, the "colored" boy who saved Trudy. Susan Gabriel’s descriptive writing places you "in the story," the reader can visualize not only the setting of the story but he emotions of the characters. I couldn't put it down, read it all in one sitting!
October 21, 2016
Susan Gabriel's done it again! This story of Trudy Trueluck, her friend Vel, her grandmother Ida, and the "colored" boy, Paris, whom she befriends, drew me like a moth to porch light. I couldn't put this book down. I grew up in the Midwest during the 60's and I couldn't help but compare my own childhood to that of the three friends in this book. Ms. Gabriel has a beautiful way of storytelling that draws the reader into place and time. I would recommend this book to readers of all ages, as I feel there is a message for us all in it's pages.
October 23, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. The author has done a wonderful job in making the readers feel like they are sitting with and planning the cohorts of the characters. She makes you wonder what's going to happen next in a racially divided City when children question friendships and authority to stay true to their heart. Looking forward to more great stories like this one.
July 27, 2017
Ida Trueluck, a widow, moves into her son’s home in Charleston, South Carolina, in the summer of 1964. Her husband has just died, and she’s not quite sure she’s doing the right thing but she is willing to try it for a while. The only sure thing is her love for her granddaughter, Trudy, a 12 year-old girl full of spunk, questions and smartness. Little do they know at the beginning of that summer that they are about to change history forever.
1964 is the time of pre-Civil Rights Act conflict. The residents of Charleston know that change is coming but few are truly welcoming it. It’s not appreciated when a young African-American boy, Paris, saves Trudy’s life. In fact, it brings the Ku Klux Klan alive and their act appalls Trudy’s father, the Mayor of Charleston. Not only does Trudy find the Klan’s act terrible, but she is determined to continue her friendship with Paris. They also decide they need to do more to make things “right.”
This then is the story of their escapade, their plan to remove the Confederate flag outside of the capital building. When reading this, one wonders if their sanity has run amok as not only is it an impossible endeavor but the implications of success are terrible to contemplate.
To say more would spoil one of the most lovely coming-of-age stories this reviewer has read in a long time. Their actions are so realistically planned and carried out that the reader totally empathizes with their dream and roots for them to the very last page. They truly depict true friendship, loyalty and integrity.
Susan Gabriel conveys a realistic, sensitive point of view for all the characters involved herein, clearly reflecting and paralleling the state of segregation and evolution of that belief system during the 1960s.
Trueluck Summer is highly recommended historical fiction, lovely writing with thought-provoking scenes that apply to the present as well as the past!
1964 is the time of pre-Civil Rights Act conflict. The residents of Charleston know that change is coming but few are truly welcoming it. It’s not appreciated when a young African-American boy, Paris, saves Trudy’s life. In fact, it brings the Ku Klux Klan alive and their act appalls Trudy’s father, the Mayor of Charleston. Not only does Trudy find the Klan’s act terrible, but she is determined to continue her friendship with Paris. They also decide they need to do more to make things “right.”
This then is the story of their escapade, their plan to remove the Confederate flag outside of the capital building. When reading this, one wonders if their sanity has run amok as not only is it an impossible endeavor but the implications of success are terrible to contemplate.
To say more would spoil one of the most lovely coming-of-age stories this reviewer has read in a long time. Their actions are so realistically planned and carried out that the reader totally empathizes with their dream and roots for them to the very last page. They truly depict true friendship, loyalty and integrity.
Susan Gabriel conveys a realistic, sensitive point of view for all the characters involved herein, clearly reflecting and paralleling the state of segregation and evolution of that belief system during the 1960s.
Trueluck Summer is highly recommended historical fiction, lovely writing with thought-provoking scenes that apply to the present as well as the past!
June 8, 2024
Sometimes I think that a particular book shows up on your literary radar exactly when you need it. I needed Trueluck Summer. This book touched me in a myriad of ways. I am also a nana and the same age as Ida, with a very close relationship with my granddaughter since we live in her backyard. In 1964 I would have been only a year younger than Trudy so I identified with her too. The entire story takes place in Charleston in 1964, a pivotal year in the Civil Rights movement. Sadly, it feels entirely current with its plot that centers around the Confederate flag. I loved every page of this novel as it explored Ida's grief as a widow and what it means to be an unconventional grandmother. I cheered for Trudy and Paris as they plotted to bring down institutional racism one brick at a time and I cried when they met Martin Luther King. You don't want to miss this book...it's a keeper.
November 1, 2016
Love and Laughter: The Genius of Author Susan Gabriel
If you love the atmospheric feel of the South and seeing some of its more memorable characters come alive, author Susan Gabriel will take you to Charleston in a sentence faster and better than anyone.
It’s hard to believe that a novel that takes place the year Plastic Mr. Potato Head was so popular could make me laugh as often and as big as I did, but in the hands of Gabriel, Trueluck Summer: Southern Historical Fiction did just that.
Of course, anything goes in the 1964 world where Easy Bake Oven was the top toy and the number one hit was Dominique by The Singing Nuns. Aside from the pop culture items noted above (from a much longer list Gabriel put in the endnotes), 1964 saw President Johnson sign the Civil Rights Act, the average income was $6,000. per year and gas was 30 cents a gallon. This is a superb handling of a difficult time in our country and in the South, and Gabriel’s touch is firm but gentle, aware but kind and unassuming but triumphant.
What I loved about this book, aside from it’s lively ambush humor, was the poetic and sweet counterpoint between the older and younger generations of people in the South for whom civil rights was as much about human courtesies, dignity and kindness as it was about equality of opportunity and access.
The main protagonists of this book, 12-year old Trudy and her grandmother, Ida Trueluck, are a force to reckon with. They’re scared but they’re brave; they’re fair and they’re kind; they’re hilarious but they know when something is serious—indeed, the serious situations made for some of the best laugh-out-loud moments in the book.
Trudy and her best girlfriend, Velvet Ogilvie, called Vel, make friends with a young Black boy, Paris Moses, who saves Trudy’s life. But their friendship usually has to play itself out in the cemetery or behind a row of dense bushes because mixed-race fraternizing is not only frowned upon, it’s like a clarion call of the wild to the overt and covert racists in Charleston. But the innocence and innate fairness of children has a way around things, and their friendship flourishes despite the roadblocks everyone else puts in their way.
The book follows this friendship against the backdrop of a crazy idea: take down the Confederate flag at the State house in Columbia, South Carolina. They connive to talk Ida into driving them from their hometown of Charleston to the state capitol, and you can’t even imagine the kinds of thing that could go wrong with this scenario, but it’s the best part of the book!
As usual, Gabriel introduces her characters in an engaging way that makes you care early and a lot. Substantial and memorable insights and observations wriggle into Gabriel’s fiction in such a benign way that you don’t even realize you’re laughing, crying or shaking your head in amazement until you’re fully in it. If anyone can recreate a 12-year old’s characterization of a Toni perm that went terribly wrong on Vel’s head, it’s Susan Gabriel.
One of the best-drawn scenes was when Trudy decides to pretend she is some creepy kid’s girlfriend to keep him from telling his racist brothers about her Black friend, Paris. The subtleties of Susan Gabriel’s truths are so beautifully rendered that you will want your friends to read this book for a look inside your own heart.
If you love the atmospheric feel of the South and seeing some of its more memorable characters come alive, author Susan Gabriel will take you to Charleston in a sentence faster and better than anyone.
It’s hard to believe that a novel that takes place the year Plastic Mr. Potato Head was so popular could make me laugh as often and as big as I did, but in the hands of Gabriel, Trueluck Summer: Southern Historical Fiction did just that.
Of course, anything goes in the 1964 world where Easy Bake Oven was the top toy and the number one hit was Dominique by The Singing Nuns. Aside from the pop culture items noted above (from a much longer list Gabriel put in the endnotes), 1964 saw President Johnson sign the Civil Rights Act, the average income was $6,000. per year and gas was 30 cents a gallon. This is a superb handling of a difficult time in our country and in the South, and Gabriel’s touch is firm but gentle, aware but kind and unassuming but triumphant.
What I loved about this book, aside from it’s lively ambush humor, was the poetic and sweet counterpoint between the older and younger generations of people in the South for whom civil rights was as much about human courtesies, dignity and kindness as it was about equality of opportunity and access.
The main protagonists of this book, 12-year old Trudy and her grandmother, Ida Trueluck, are a force to reckon with. They’re scared but they’re brave; they’re fair and they’re kind; they’re hilarious but they know when something is serious—indeed, the serious situations made for some of the best laugh-out-loud moments in the book.
Trudy and her best girlfriend, Velvet Ogilvie, called Vel, make friends with a young Black boy, Paris Moses, who saves Trudy’s life. But their friendship usually has to play itself out in the cemetery or behind a row of dense bushes because mixed-race fraternizing is not only frowned upon, it’s like a clarion call of the wild to the overt and covert racists in Charleston. But the innocence and innate fairness of children has a way around things, and their friendship flourishes despite the roadblocks everyone else puts in their way.
The book follows this friendship against the backdrop of a crazy idea: take down the Confederate flag at the State house in Columbia, South Carolina. They connive to talk Ida into driving them from their hometown of Charleston to the state capitol, and you can’t even imagine the kinds of thing that could go wrong with this scenario, but it’s the best part of the book!
As usual, Gabriel introduces her characters in an engaging way that makes you care early and a lot. Substantial and memorable insights and observations wriggle into Gabriel’s fiction in such a benign way that you don’t even realize you’re laughing, crying or shaking your head in amazement until you’re fully in it. If anyone can recreate a 12-year old’s characterization of a Toni perm that went terribly wrong on Vel’s head, it’s Susan Gabriel.
One of the best-drawn scenes was when Trudy decides to pretend she is some creepy kid’s girlfriend to keep him from telling his racist brothers about her Black friend, Paris. The subtleties of Susan Gabriel’s truths are so beautifully rendered that you will want your friends to read this book for a look inside your own heart.
Read
October 24, 2016I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I found this to be a great read. I fell in love with the characters of 12 yr. old Trudy and her grandmother Ida.
The setting in the south during the Civil Rights Movement is well written and explains the story in language that
is easy to follow and understand, and to "picture" what if fully happening in the story.
I highly recommend this to everyone.
I found this to be a great read. I fell in love with the characters of 12 yr. old Trudy and her grandmother Ida.
The setting in the south during the Civil Rights Movement is well written and explains the story in language that
is easy to follow and understand, and to "picture" what if fully happening in the story.
I highly recommend this to everyone.
November 3, 2016
Susan Gabriel did it again! She created a book full of characters I fell in love with. I love the alternating person narrative as it gives a perspective from two different points of view. One from a 72 year old grandmother and one from a 12 year old granddaughter. The book tackles the tough times of the 60's. If you haven't read any of Ms. Gabriel's books yet, it's high time you pick one up!
August 13, 2017
Trueluck Summer by Susan Gabriel follows the adventures of an interesting group of individuals during the summer of 1964 in Charleston, South Carolina. Plucky twelve year old Trudy Trueluck, her grandmother Ida, her bookworm best friend Velvet Olgilvie, and a new friend, twelve year old Paris Moses, a black boy who saves Trudy from certain death in front of a bread truck, embark on a summer of adventure and crusade for civil rights. The children learn that maintaining an interracial friendship during the early 1960s is not easy when one of them is the mayor's daughter and the "old guard" of ideas is still the prevalent feeling of most white people. As a matter of fact, having a black friend is downright dangerous. Trudy and her friends feel inclined to do something to stand up what for what is right, to stand up for their friend, Paris, and they seek help from Ida in a plan to take down the Confederate flag from the State House. The implementation of their plan and the repercussions result in challenges and events that no one could have predicted, but strengthened the bond among the children and the grandmother that would endure for years to come.
This was a quick read, and in light of the present climate in our country, an important subject to consider. I definitely recommend this book to fans of southern literature. Although not as somber as many books dealing with racism can be, this novel can lend itself to some interesting discussions. Even some mature teens may enjoy this novel.
This was a quick read, and in light of the present climate in our country, an important subject to consider. I definitely recommend this book to fans of southern literature. Although not as somber as many books dealing with racism can be, this novel can lend itself to some interesting discussions. Even some mature teens may enjoy this novel.
November 8, 2019
I actually read this wonderful book a few years ago. I have no idea why I didn’t post a review but here it is now.
This was a very fun book. It was funny and series. It was a true Southern Fiction book that keeps you turning the pages throughout. I loved how the children got along and interacted during a time when racism was at it’s worse. Ida Trueluck is Trudy’s grandmother. She came to live with her son and his family even though she would much rather have stayed where she was. Trudy’s best friend Velvet are inseparable and do almost everything together. When Trudy is almost hit by a bread truck a black boy, Paris, saves her life. They become instant friends. They go through many adventures together but one that could land them all in trouble for sure is to take down the Confederate flag that flies atop the South Carolina State House... Can they do this? Will Ida help? If she doesn’t they sure can’t do it alone.
This book is such a good one and will take you deep into the heart of Southern racism and understanding. The friendships between children and the innocence and caring of children toward each other. It’s a book that will definitely make you believe that things can get better. It’s a very good read. One you won’t forget. Through all the ups and downs these children go through you will laugh, shout, get angry and shed tears. Overall it’s truly a heart touching story of a summer of learning.
I loved this book so much.
It’s a huge 5 star read and made me want more of Susan Gabriel’s books. I highly recommend this book.
This was a very fun book. It was funny and series. It was a true Southern Fiction book that keeps you turning the pages throughout. I loved how the children got along and interacted during a time when racism was at it’s worse. Ida Trueluck is Trudy’s grandmother. She came to live with her son and his family even though she would much rather have stayed where she was. Trudy’s best friend Velvet are inseparable and do almost everything together. When Trudy is almost hit by a bread truck a black boy, Paris, saves her life. They become instant friends. They go through many adventures together but one that could land them all in trouble for sure is to take down the Confederate flag that flies atop the South Carolina State House... Can they do this? Will Ida help? If she doesn’t they sure can’t do it alone.
This book is such a good one and will take you deep into the heart of Southern racism and understanding. The friendships between children and the innocence and caring of children toward each other. It’s a book that will definitely make you believe that things can get better. It’s a very good read. One you won’t forget. Through all the ups and downs these children go through you will laugh, shout, get angry and shed tears. Overall it’s truly a heart touching story of a summer of learning.
I loved this book so much.
It’s a huge 5 star read and made me want more of Susan Gabriel’s books. I highly recommend this book.
February 15, 2020
I just finished reading Susan Gabriel’s book, Trueluck Summer. I love a good Southern read and this was right up there!
This is a story set in South Carolina in 1964 when there is still racial unrest in the world.
I loved how Grandma Trueluck stands by her 12 year old granddaughter to choose the friends she wants based on their good merit and not their race.
This story needs to be continued to be shared until we ALL realize that every one of us are children of God and all brothers and sisters.
Thank You for sharing your writing talent with us all. I look forward to reading more of your books!
This is a story set in South Carolina in 1964 when there is still racial unrest in the world.
I loved how Grandma Trueluck stands by her 12 year old granddaughter to choose the friends she wants based on their good merit and not their race.
This story needs to be continued to be shared until we ALL realize that every one of us are children of God and all brothers and sisters.
Thank You for sharing your writing talent with us all. I look forward to reading more of your books!
June 21, 2021
The summer of 1964 in Charleston was one I remember well. I only wish I'd known someone like Trudy Trueluck and her grandmother and friends. This book tells a slice of a story similar to stories happening all over America that year. I love that the author tells us how each character has moments of great bravery as well as moments of self-doubt and fear. I wish I hadn't been such a shy child, afraid of my own shadow, but more like Trudy, who was true to herself!
After the end of the book, there's a list provided of events, popular songs and movies, and facts about America in 1964. What a sweet trip down memory lane!!
After the end of the book, there's a list provided of events, popular songs and movies, and facts about America in 1964. What a sweet trip down memory lane!!
May 29, 2023
South Carolina in 1964 is not the best time or place for two white girls, Trudy and Vel, to become friends withParis,a Black boy. But they do and start a quiet rebellion with the help of Trudy’s grandmother, Ida.
Told in alternating viewpoints of Trudy and Ida, the story seems like it is geared towards middle readers, yet Ida’s input is more for adults creating the question of who is the intended audience.
Covering the deep prejudice found at that time in the South, the author also provides the viewpoint that change comes slowly, yet it must start at some point, even as small as a change as two white girls and Black boy becoming friends over the summer.
Told in alternating viewpoints of Trudy and Ida, the story seems like it is geared towards middle readers, yet Ida’s input is more for adults creating the question of who is the intended audience.
Covering the deep prejudice found at that time in the South, the author also provides the viewpoint that change comes slowly, yet it must start at some point, even as small as a change as two white girls and Black boy becoming friends over the summer.
November 6, 2016
I really enjoyed this book about the Trueluck family. It centers around the relationship between Ida and her grand-daughter, Trudy. Ida has moved in with her son, daughter-in-law and her grandchildren. Trudy is saved from a Sunbeam Bread truck by Paris, a black boy who had a desire to see the Confederate flag removed from the capital building in Colombia, SC. Trudy and Paris become friends even though that relationship is discouraged in the 1960s.
August 5, 2017
I enjoyed Trueluck Summer. Having grown up in Houston, TX during the 1960's, I related to the feelings of the kids in the story. I laughed at the experience in the Columbia rotunda. I imagined myself at that age trying to make a difference. As a now 60+ senior citizen I could understand Ida's thoughts and feelings. As a whole, the book was heartwarming and I would recommend it to anyone, young or old. An added bonus was the 1960 memorabilia included after the book's completion.
February 24, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. I love a "coming of age" story, especially set in the south. Also, this was set in 1964, which ended my freshman year of high school so I can relate both to Trudy, the 12 year old, and her grandmother who is close to my current age. A lot of discord and change was in the air during this time in history and even though the youngsters escapades were unrealistic, you like to think it could have happened.
August 16, 2019
I discovered Susan Gabriel’s books recently. This is the third book that I have read by her. She calls herself a Southern writer. I would agree with that but she is much more. Her books take place in the south, particularly Savannah and Charleston. Having grown up in the South and experiencing many of the things and places mentioned, I can really relate to her books. I planning to read all of them. Her characters are interesting and strong. I highly recommend her books.
October 15, 2019
First, this should be on the young adult shelf. I can’t fathom why it’s considered an adult book even with some of the gory details. The events seem ridiculous and totally unbelievable. I found so many mistakes and impossibilities in the break in scene, I don’t understand what the author and editor were thinking. This was not the touching grandmother/granddaughter story I was expecting. It is repetitive and uninteresting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2017
Easy but enjoyable read
This is the first time I have read a Susan Gabriel book. Enjoyed it immensely. Immediately fell in love with the main characters. Have already recommended this book to be friends if they want to read a nice book. A book that will make you think and laugh.
This is the first time I have read a Susan Gabriel book. Enjoyed it immensely. Immediately fell in love with the main characters. Have already recommended this book to be friends if they want to read a nice book. A book that will make you think and laugh.
October 11, 2018
Clever story.
I was living in the South again and taken back in time to 1964 while reading this book. A sweet story of a grandmother's and granddaughter's special bond created by love, loyalty, and a common desire for justice. Creative plot and memorable characters made this book quite enjoyable.
I was living in the South again and taken back in time to 1964 while reading this book. A sweet story of a grandmother's and granddaughter's special bond created by love, loyalty, and a common desire for justice. Creative plot and memorable characters made this book quite enjoyable.
January 21, 2019
When you see the title you might think it's a read at the beach, summer
love story but actually about multiracial friendship and unrest in the 60's. Brought back a lot of memories of when I was in elementary and middle school. Third book I've read by Susan Gabriel and have loved them all. Have "Gullah Secrets" on order.
love story but actually about multiracial friendship and unrest in the 60's. Brought back a lot of memories of when I was in elementary and middle school. Third book I've read by Susan Gabriel and have loved them all. Have "Gullah Secrets" on order.
July 24, 2019
Charleston, 1964. Two twelve year old white girls, one twelve year old “colored” boy and a 70 year old grandmother traverse the time of civil rights actions, segregation and the KKK. A wonderfully narrated story of growing up and learning the ways of the world. Gabriel weaves a thread of humor through this tale that allows for some laugh out loud moments.
March 10, 2020
Pleasantly surprised
I picked this up thinking this would be a light fictional read. I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of emotion portrayed here with regards to race relations in the 1960s. Nicely written and a great reminder that, even after all these years, this topic still needs our attention. May we all be like “Nana” and be willing to do what is right.
I picked this up thinking this would be a light fictional read. I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of emotion portrayed here with regards to race relations in the 1960s. Nicely written and a great reminder that, even after all these years, this topic still needs our attention. May we all be like “Nana” and be willing to do what is right.
July 15, 2017
This book is excellent for all ages from 12 up. It is a great reminder of how far we have come and how much more we need to do for equal rights. Loving our fellow human beings is one of our greatest calls in life.
August 6, 2017
This was such a nice book to read. Thoroughly enjoyed it, a good choice for my summer reading. I loved the characters and how they stood behind what they believed in. I will be reading more of Susan Gabriel's books.
March 15, 2019
Beautifully Written
Trueluck Summer is a beautifully written story of the tumultuous times in the 60s. The love and trust between a young girl and her grandmother is heartwarming. Susan Gabriel brings humor and history together in this delightful book.
Trueluck Summer is a beautifully written story of the tumultuous times in the 60s. The love and trust between a young girl and her grandmother is heartwarming. Susan Gabriel brings humor and history together in this delightful book.
July 26, 2020
Grabbed my heartstrings
Having lived in the south during the "turbulent 60's", this book brought back many memories and emotions. We have come so far, but still have not arrived. God help us ALL to learn from our past.
Having lived in the south during the "turbulent 60's", this book brought back many memories and emotions. We have come so far, but still have not arrived. God help us ALL to learn from our past.
June 28, 2023
Absolutely loved this book! It takes place in Charleston during the 1960’s. It about a young girl, her grandmother and her best friend and young black boy she befriended at time when it was taboo. It’s funny, adventurous, and just a feel good story. Yes I would recommend it! It was a great read!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews