All Over But the Shoutin' / Rick Bragg - 4****

[Book Concierge]

All Over But the Shoutin’ – Rick Bragg
4****

In this memoir, Pulitzer-Prize-winning journalist Rick Bragg outlines the difficulties of growing up “dirt poor” in Appalachia, with an alcoholic father who could never shake that demon and a mother who willingly sacrificed her own health and well-being for her children’s sake. He also gives the reader a look at the life of a child who felt loved and was free to explore and roam and enjoy the nature around him. He openly shares the differing paths his brothers took. Older brother Sam found his own success, taking on the mantle of adult responsibilities when he was still a child, while younger brother Mark continues to struggle. And Bragg gives a nod of thanks to the relatives (Uncle Ed, in particular), townspeople and teachers who recognized his talent and encouraged him to strive for something more.

There is a sense of nostalgia about some of his reminiscences. Bragg left his home, but his home never left him. His story in an honest, gripping, heart-wrenching and inspiring love letter to his mother.


LINK to my review

[Booknblues]

This has been on my wishlist forever, so thank you for the review.

[Holly R W]

I was not familiar with Rick Bragg until I read his book of essays, many of them concerning his mother. I loved his gentle humor in the book, Where I Come from: Stories from the Deep South. It was interesting to read your review of "All over but the Shoutin".

My review of "Where I Come From". https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

[Joy D]

I read this book several years ago and thought it was very well done. Glad you enjoyed it too.

[Book Concierge]

Holly R W wrote: "I was not familiar with Rick Bragg until I read his book of essays, many of them concerning his mother. I loved his gentle humor in the book, [book:Where I Come from: Stories from the Deep South|51..."

Adding this one to my tbr. Thanks!