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What Members Thought
Jan 22, 2018
Lea Elizabeth Ludwig
rated it
really liked it
Shelves:
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2018-books
I read this for my neighborhood book club and really enjoyed this coming of age story. It’s told from the perspective of 13 year old Frank Drum as he observes the characters and tragedies taking place the summer of 1961. My favorite character was Mr Drum who is the minister at the town church. “Pure” and gentle are the best ways to describe him. I loved the simpler time and the concept of God’s grace in our lives. Sometimes the best moments are the “ordinary ones”. Very well written.
Enjoyed this character driven novel set in Minnesota in 1961. One tragic summer death visits New Bremen in many forms - accidental, suicide, murder. Young Frank and his brother Jake struggle to come to terms with the trials of growing up amidst heartache.
Listened to audio for re read for book club - great listen.
Listened to audio for re read for book club - great listen.
Our Browncroft Book Club chose this for our April read. While I was in the minority because I didn't love the book the way most of them did (for reasons I won't go into here), I admired the strong sense of place the author created and I was interested in the characters and their journey.
Quote to ponder:
"My father used to quote the Greek playwright Aeschylus. 'He who learns must suffer. And even in our sleep pain, which cannot forget, falls drop by drop upon the heart, until, in our own despair, ...more
Quote to ponder:
"My father used to quote the Greek playwright Aeschylus. 'He who learns must suffer. And even in our sleep pain, which cannot forget, falls drop by drop upon the heart, until, in our own despair, ...more
This book is beautiful, thought-provoking, and real. I loved each and every character, as well as the town of New Bremen. I savored every chapter because I just hated to have it end.
Sad story but well done and worth the read.
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Apr 04, 2015
Becky
marked it as to-read
Jan 15, 2016
Janetc
marked it as to-read
Nov 22, 2019
Cynthia Dana
marked it as to-read
Jul 20, 2025
Maria
marked it as to-read
