South Carolina Books

It doesn't take many pages of "Hog Farm Chronicles" to know that
Allen Powell knows kids -- and himself. What unfolds in this short and delightful book is the chronicle of an adult learning from a group of kids about the mutuality of respect. Allen learns to respect them for their heroic struggles to be themselves in a system that doesn't fit. His respect of them results in their respect, and when you have theirs, they'll die for you. {Adult respect is in precious short supply in some lives.)

The book is an important one, although it may not appear so at first. I believe that it is an important one for those teaching and administering kids in schools because it clearly shows that the normal mold of schools will not work with some kids. They need alternatives -- alternatives that respect the skills they do have and wish to exercise. Indeed, their aberrant behaviors towards "the enemy" display brilliant tactics artfully employed to "get even."

For anyone who has shared a classroom with a motley bunch of early adolescents and grown to love them over time, I invite you to enjoy this book. For anyone who has shared a classroom with a motley bunch of early adolescents and has grown to hate them, you must read this book. It contains truth -- something rare in the halls of education. It also helps each of us come to a better understanding of our limits as teachers in "making" kids do our bidding.

With candid wit and humor, Mr. Allen Powell dares to bring to print his wild and touching stories as a teacher. Refreshing and real, I laughed as he told one story after another with such awesome expression of boys struggling with life on life's terms.

I hope teachers,educators and parents will give themselves the gift of Mr. Powell's short stories. We are not alone with our trials, struggles as well as heartfelt moments.

Thank you, Mr. Powell, for sharing your unique and uplifting perspective.

This funny, sad, irreverent, hopeful, painfully honest, personal recounting of a brand new teacher's experiences with students with different problems, attitudes, and needs who are enrolled in a non traditional program of vocational agriculture in high school should be required reading for all beginning teachers, irrespective of the subject or level that they teach. Once you start reading, you won't put it down until you finish because it holds your attention. Powell illustrates vividly that students are people with feelings and needs, that they deserve the very best from the teacher, that they will respond to opportunities, that they will take initiative, that they are not losers, and that both teacher and students will be successful if the teacher accepts and allows nonconformity and uses ingenuity. While the author writes unnecessarily in a coarse and crude manner in a couple of passages, this does not distract from the human story being recounted with all the attendant implications for achieving success in teaching/learning. Principals, also, should read this short book and then ask themselves how they support teachers with nonconforming ideas.

Educators will enjoy this insightful and realist revisit to the first years of their teaching experience and smile and laugh out loud at the author's recounting of those trepidacious and sometimes daunting times. Parents will see their precious piglets through the eyes of what is surely a caring and special educator. Everyone will have a pleasant and thought provoking respite while reading, as they are entertained and reminded that this business of successfully educating all of the children of all of the people is only possible when the teacher is a unique blend of gentleman farmer, philosopher, humanitarian and CEO.

We are all rewarded when someone takes the time to write a intelligent and philanthropic message from the heart and this is what Allen Powell has done.

Myra C. Reynolds, Educator

Allen Powell's "The Hog Farm Chronicles" is without a doubt the most humorous and entertaining book I've read in many, many years. It is a "must read" for anyone ever involved in working with young people, particularly in education. BE WARNED: You'll laugh until you cry . . . I did and ruined a new pair of contacts.

Take this one to the beach but put on a lot of sun screen before you go. The plot will grab you and the afternoon and pages will fly by. Wall does a great job of keeping the narrative moving while evoking the beauty and unique culture of the coastal South Carolina lowcountry.

Arriving on the island (Hilton Head) for one of my quarterly visits, I stopped at the book store and was attracted to the "Local Authors" table. I picked up In for a Penny and took it to my villa.

I got so involved in the plot, and taken by recognizing the settings, that I read well into the night and straight through the next day. I enjoyed everything about this book, including the wonderful quotes from Bartlett's.

On day 3 I went back to the book store and bought the second in the series. I did force myself to do things in addition to reading for the remainder of my stay, but I am now hooked and will savor reading all of the Bay Tanner mysteries.

Excellent plot with interesting characters! This is a great mystery with lots of twists and turns - has excellent and accurate descriptions of the South Carolina coast and its people. A great "beach" read, perfect for anyone who loves a good mystery or wants to escape in an engrossing story...

The package had arrived by the time I got home from work on Friday. I tore into the package and then tore into the book. Didn't stop until I finished on Saturday! The book may be called "In for a penny", but you will be "In" for a great read!

In for a Penny was a good solid read with well-drawn characters that had believable relationships between them. I look forward to the next book in the series.

I was so enamored by the description of this book in both English and Spanish when I was looking for sewing, knitting, and crochet books for my women relatives in Mexico who are often alone long periods while their husbands work contracts in the US doing various things such as planting pines and electrical work. When I visited I realized they could do many crafts but had limits on their knowledge as to what to make and do such that they often bought kits. So I decided to look at Amazon who has always pleased me with their selection of books in English and Spanish for books to help them learn when Amazon suggested this book when I was looking around. My sister in laws are so excited to get a good reading book in Spanish that is a novella. The life is nice there a bit hot, a bit underdeveloped as when they first moved to this town there were only 3 houses and 300 houses now does not support much entertainment such that they have to look for entertainment such as DVD's, and music CD's we were sending to them for awhile. I never thought before to send them Novels and I am so pleased that Amazon suggested this excellent book to me. I want to thank everyone who did such excellent reviews on this book both in Spanish and English along with whomever decided to translate it to Spanish that I chose to purchase this along with sewing books. It came in excellent new condition for an excellent price and I read enough to know it is an excellent book for a gift idea in Spanish and English. Thanks to Amazon and all it's sellers along with people who took time to do excellent reviews because we were very very pleased with this book.

Este libro ha sido muy refrescante de leer. A mi me encanto muchisimo. La primera vez que lei un libro de esta autora me fascino su forma de escribir. Sus palabras son muy poeticas y en verdad hay mucho romance en sus descripciones y su forma de contar los acontesimientos. La vida secreta de las avejas es muy interesante. Al terminar te deja con un sabor triste pero tambien aprendes muchisimo sobre las avejas en si y puedes explorar sobre los sentimientos entre madre a hija. Recomiendo leer todos los libros de esta autora. Sin duda se ha convertido en una de mis favoritas.

Narracion de que tan cercana puede ser la relacion entre mujeres sin importar la raza ni la edad., que tanto arriegas por otra persona cuando realmente sientes tu compromiso hacia ella sin importar que seas o no familia

y como a veces tu instinto te lleva a partes que de repente no concuerda pero al terminar el dia ves el porque de tu accion.

Este libro debe ser leido por madres, hemanas, hijas, amigas...

This is the Spanish text edition of the New York Times best selling novel, "The Secret Life of Bees". It is a beautifully written, coming of age story, set in rural South Carolina in 1964 against the back drop of the civil rights movement. It is the touching story of a young white girl, fourteen year old Lily Owens, whose mother died in a tragic accident when Lily was about four. Lily lives with her father, a harsh man with whom no love is lost, on a peach farm outside Sylvan, South Carolina. Her mother's death stands between them.

Neglected by her father, Lily is brought up by Rosaleen, a big-hearted black woman, who loves Lily and whom Lily loves. Yet, hers is a lonely existence, compounded by her unquenched thirst for information about her mother, Deborah. All she has left of her mother are some cloudy memories and a box containing a few mementos, among them a picture of a Black Madonna, inscribed with the words, "Tiburon, S.C."

When Rosaleen goes into town to register to vote, she feels empowered by the passing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and has a run-in with the town's three biggest racists, resulting in Rosaleen being taken into custody. Lily arranges for her to break free. Together, they seek sanctuary in Tiburon, South Carolina, where Lily discovers the mystery of the Black Madonna.

Taken in by a trio of middle-aged black women who are sisters, as well as beekeepers, Lily is introduced to the secret life of bees and begins to learn some important life lessons. She also learns something about her mother and finds love where she least expected.

This is simply a beautifully realized novel, written in a true Southern voice by a wonderful writer with a story to tell. It is little wonder that this compelling book has received so many accolades. It is a stunning fiction debut by the author.

This is the Spanish text edition of the New York Times best selling novel, "The Secret Life of Bees". It is a beautifully written, coming of age story, set in rural South Carolina in 1964 against the back drop of the civil rights movement. It is the touching story of a young white girl, fourteen year old Lily Owens, whose mother died in a tragic accident when Lily was about four. Lily lives with her father, a harsh man with whom no love is lost, on a peach farm outside Sylvan, South Carolina. Her mother's death stands between them.

Neglected by her father, Lily is brought up by Rosaleen, a big-hearted black woman, who loves Lily and whom Lily loves. Yet, hers is a lonely existence, compounded by her unquenched thirst for information about her mother, Deborah. All she has left of her mother are some cloudy memories and a box containing a few mementos, among them a picture of a Black Madonna, inscribed with the words, "Tiburon, S.C."

When Rosaleen goes into town to register to vote, she feels empowered by the passing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and has a run-in with the town's three biggest racists, resulting in Rosaleen being taken into custody. Lily arranges for her to break free. Together, they seek sanctuary in Tiburon, South Carolina, where Lily discovers the mystery of the Black Madonna.

Taken in by a trio of middle-aged black women who are sisters, as well as beekeepers, Lily is introduced to the secret life of bees and begins to learn some important life lessons. She also learns something about her mother and finds love where she least expected.

This is simply a beautifully realized novel, written in a true Southern voice by a wonderful writer with a story to tell. It is little wonder that this compelling book has received so many accolades. It is a stunning fiction debut by the author.

I thought this a good book for anyone reading about or studying Major-General William Tecumseh Sherman's March to the Sea and the March through the Carolinas. It captures the thoughts and personalities of the Army behind the man and gives the reader an insight to why they did some of the things that are so controversial today.

I have to confess a bias; Professor Glatthaar taught me US history in my first semester of college and was a very engaging, entertaining and clear teacher.

This book is history of the very best kind. It is extensively documented from primary sources, it is well written and draws the reader in and the text of the book is free from cumbersome and often distracting academic citation apparatus. It also has selected a topic of almost epic proportions.

The March to the Sea, coming on the heels of the devastating fall of Atlanta was the straw that broke the South's back. After years of war and the related hardships, the devastation that this march produced in the South dealt a death blow to the South's war effort.

In one of the great strategic decisions of the war, Sherman breaks his lines of communication and supply and, like a modern day nuclear sub, disappears only to resurface at Savannah. The freedom of movement that this decision allowed made this march even more effective.

Further, the productivity of the South, even after years of warfare is evidenced. The author presents data showing an increase in the weight of soldiers due to the richness of the diet they were able to secure from those unfortunate enough to be in the path of Sherman's army.

To quibble with a prior reviewer, this is not a novel. This is academic history of the best sort but written in a easy and accesible manner. A great book.

This book contains an examination of the army that General William Tecumseh Sherman led through Georgia and the Carolinas, in late 1864 and early 1865. Instead of being just another narrative of the March to the Sea and Carolina campaigns, however, Glatthaar's book is a look at the individuals that composed the army. In it, he examines the social and ideological backgrounds of the men in Sherman's army, and evaluates how they felt about various factors of the war--slavery, the union, and, most significantly, the campaign in which they were participating. The result is a fascinating look at Sherman's campaigns through the eyes of the everyday soldier. Glatthaar makes the army come alive, and shows the men not as heartless animals who delighted in wanton destruction, not as mechanized marching machines who could perform the most difficult marches without even flinching, but instead as real human beings, complete with sore feet, empty stomachs, and minds engaged in contemplation over the ethical ramifications of what they were doing to the people of the South.

This book, and others like it (such as James McPherson's For Cause and Comrades), is a refreshing change from the norm in Civil War history. The value of this book lies in its helping the reader understand that the war was fought by individuals, not masses of blue and gray, and that these individuals felt and thought a great deal about the cause they were engaged in. I have read much on the subject of Sherman's march, but never before this book did I truly feel like I understood the mentality of the 60,000 man army he led. This book will not give you a detailed and thorough account of Sherman's campaigns, but it will give anyone who already is somewhat familiar with the marches an incredible amount of insight that, I believe, cannot be gained elsewhere.

Individuals who belong to a Civil War reenacting association, history buffs, and serious scholars of the Civil War will all find quiet enjoyment in Joseph Glatthaar's historical novel on Major General Sherman's march to Savannah and through the Carolinas. Glatthaar's perspective of bringing the war down to the level of the individual soldier is not always found in historical novels. He writes about the soldier's innermost feelings, not about the glorious generals, the great armies, or the magnificent campaigns. I believe that individual battles do not win wars, but that it is the men composing the fighting force that can turn a potential devastating defeat into a glorious victory. Mr. Glatthaar has done a great justice in his portrayal of the men who conducted the march to the sea and beyond. I would highly recommend the book to anyone who wishes better to understand the soldiers that fought for Sherman

Joseph Glatthaar wrote this book in order to examine Sherman's march across the South "from the level of the common soldier, both enlisted and officer". In the introduction he states that by writing the book from this perspective, he hoped "to restore the reality of the campaigns, to understand the underlying motivation of Sherman's men for adopting a policy of devestation and to shed light on the total-war concept in military history".

Mr. Glatthaar's efforts have resulted in this very informative and engaging book. I did not know a lot about Sherman's Army before reading this book, and feel that I now have a much better understanding of the men who filled the ranks and led the regiments in their famous march to the sea. In his text, Mr. Glatthaar presents many quotes directly from letters and diaries written by Sherman's men, which really enhances the story and his conclusions.

I recommend this book for anyone wanting to learn about Sherman's Army- why it was successful, why it adopted a policy of total war, destroying much of the South, and why it remains controversial to this day.

Kathy Wall continues to intrigue her readers with her plot twists. I love Bay Tanner which is a credit to Kathy's gift of character development. I have to admit that I'm a little "creeped out" by Bay's relationship with her dead husband's brother. I'll leave it up to Kathy to "develop" that into something that feels less incestuous to me.

I love every one of Kathryn Wall's books and can't wait until she writes the next one. I just returned from Hilton Head Island while vacationing, and every summer I wonder what it would be like to leave my home state of WV and stay on the island like she has. I dream of retiring from teaching and looking at the ocean, but don't know if I could convince my husband! This book brings Bay Tanner closer to a marriage commitment than ever before, and reveals more about her close family friends than any of her other books so far....I feel like she's a member of my own family I know so much about her! I couldn't put the book down, and I love how Kathryn draws her readers into Bay Tanner's life. Thank you, Ms. Wall, for another make-believe trip to Hilton Head Island when I am stuck here in the rainy mountains of West Virginia! Pam Piziak

This was another wonderful Bay Tanner mystery. The only down side is it was over all too soon because I cannot put one of her stories down until the end. Already wishing for the next in the series. Thanks Kathryn R. Wall !!

Although the mystery at the center of The Mercy Oak involves the possible murder of a young Hispanic girl, what ultimately makes the novel such a satisfying read is the masterful way the author connects that story to the mysteries of the human heart.

In Kathryn Wall's most recent novel in the BayTanner Mystery series, Bay, (a.k.a. Lydia Simpson), a private investigator at Simpson & Tanner, Inquiry Agents, on the Island of Hilton Head, South Carolina, takes on a potential case of murder. Bay is haunted by the ghosts of her past--she has lost her mother, Emmaline, her husband Rob (murdered three years before The Mercy Oak begins), and her former partner, Ben Wyler. But Bay is slowly building a new relationship with her brother-in-law, Red Tanner, the sergeant at the Beaufort County Sheriff's office. Red's commitment to law enforcement is often at odds with Bay's work. The friction between them heats up when Bay agrees to take on a new investigation.

The plot of The Mercy Oak involves two crimes. Less than two weeks before Christmas, a young girl is killed in a hit-and-run accident. Initially believed to be Serena Montalvo, her death is at first ruled accidental, but when Bobby Santiago, the son of Bay's Guatemalan housekeeper Delores, calls to ask Bay for help, she soon learns that the dead girl is actually Serena's sister, Theresa.

At the same time, a series of bank robberies have distracted the police from pursuing an investigation into Theresa's death. When Bobby and his mother Delores disappear, the investigation takes on a more personal aspect. Bay learns that Theresa's death may be connected to a local campaign to support the rights of illegal immigrants, and the FBI is involved. Threatening phone calls, vandalism, and the involvement of a family friend in the hold-ups, all lead Bay to believe the two crimes are related and that she is the common thread.

The Mercy Oak is a fast-paced, romantic mystery, recommended reading for a day lounging on the beach, or a crisp autumn evening nestled by the fire.

Armchair Interviews says: Unique background story for this mystery.

On Sunday Island, South Carolina Bobby Santiago calls his mother Dolores' employer Simpson & Tanner Inquiry Agent Bay Tanner asking for her help. He fears the Hispanic Jane Doe reported as dead in the Sunday Island Packet is his girlfriend, Serena Montalvo, who he believes was murdered.

Serena has been a vocal advocate of the rights of illegals; Bobby thinks the Coyotes who transport them to the States for exorbitant fees and blackmails them afterward, killed her. However, instead the victim is Serena's sixteen years old sister, Theresa. Bobby and Serena vanish while his parents out of fear for their other two offspring as well themselves remain mute on what they know. When Dolores vanishes, Bay drops everything to find her housekeeper even as FBI Special Agent Harry Reynolds warns Bay to stay out of his inquiries into some bank robberies he is investigating and Homeland Security agents threaten to lock her up under the Patriot Act if she does not back off. Obstinate as ever; Bay digs deeper as she distrusts the Feds to protect the Santiago's, Montalvo's, or any illegals.

This is a fabulous Bay Tanner mystery that showcases the other side of the illegal immigration issue from the perspective of those entering the country illegally. Ironically, the recent clamor led by Congressman Tancredo to kick people out has abetted the Coyote crowd, who has found a lucrative second economic source. The story line is fast-paced as Bay gets involved in a case in which everyone tells her to stay out or else. Kathryn R. Wall is at her best with this exciting thought provoking thriller focusing on the consequences of who keeps winning the illegal immigration debate.

Harriet Klausner

Never before has such a vital historical link in American History been connected. Nineteen Century Freedon Fighters: The 1st South Carolina Volunteers documents the first participation of African American troops in the Civil War. This story has long been a blank page in American History books. The authors, MCrae, Miller, and Towbridge-Miller so movingly presented little known facts through vivid first person accounts and even photographs that captured the determination of exslaves who dared to fight for freedom. The book is packed with insights and "strait shooting facts" that the reader will find new and indeed captivating.

by: Sharon Heist

The small size of this volume should not deter anyone from its purchase. Valuable for the many National archives photos alone, the words of Charles Trowbridge make it a gem. My interest in the USCT began several years ago, with the Department of the South. As I learned more of General David Hunter, Colonel T. W. Higginson, and Lt. Col. Trowbridge and the men who served under them, there was no doubt that I would need to learn much more of these soldiers.

That early research has become a quest to tell the stories of the USCT through the voices of the men themselves. This book has added a valuable piece to that history, a new primary source to enlighten us all. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to learn more of the real history that effects us all.

History is best told in the words of the players, and having diary and personal experiences told here are a facet that has been missing from much Civil War literature, and especially that of the Black soldiers

This book is a perfect antidote for people who think history is boring. This brief, dramatically illustrated volume opens up a whole unknown world of courageous ex-slaves fighting bravely and brilliantly not just against a slave-holding enemy, but a Federal Government often indifferent to their fate. The historical narrative and the reprinted first person accounts are vivid pieces of reportage and memory.

This book was interesting and a wonderful find for a History Buff!

This is one of those quiet books that's easy to read and digest.

At the heart of this text is Lieutenant Colonel Charles Tyler Trowbridge, commanding officer of the 33rd United States Colored Troops - the first Black unit of the civil war.

Initially called The 1st South Carolina Volunteers, this unit preceded the 54th Massachusetts, of film 'Glory' fame, by one year.

You learn about an emancipation proclamation declared by Major-General David Hunter; only to be repudiated by none other than Abraham Lincoln!

Through Trowbridge's ".. anecdotal memoir.." we experience a vascillating federal government not sure what to do with Blacks who are willing and able to fight for the Union.
The middle of the book (pgs. 35-97) contains photographs that tells the story of the Civil War as well as any text.

Part two of the book begins " On March 3 1865, Congress establishes the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands".
Lt. Col. Charles Trowbridge and his regiment of the 33rd USCT were assigned to provide military support to Freedman's Bureau activity in South Carolina.
His recounting of the incidents and dangers faced by himself and others will send chills through you.

At 127 pages, including the photographs, you could read this book in one sitting. You may find yourself re-reading it, as I did.
This book should easily find its way into school history curriculums. Highly recommended.

Peace,
"Guided by the Ancestors"
[...]

This is an extremely insightful examination of the election that first put Grover Cleveland in the White House. The ways in which Summers analyzes the political process remind me of Holt's masterpiece, "The Rise and Fall of the American Whig Party". (That is a much more massive book, as it covers a broader topic over a longer period). The use of political cartoons of the period to support the narrative is probably the best I've seen. The style is engaging, although occasionally I think Summers gets slightly carried away. For example, at least one discussion of the standard myths about the period goes on long enough to be somewhat disruptive. Also, while I don't detect any factual bias, there is a tendency to look at things more a Republican perspective. That is, issues (e.g., the role of the minor parties) are more often discussed in terms of problems facing the GOP and how well they did or did not deal with them. The outcome of the election is reported in language that seems rather wistful that Blaine lost. Again, this is only a matter of relative emphasis - there is excellent material on the complex relations between the Democrats at the national and state levels and the rival Democratic machines in New York City. Despite my minor quibbles, I highly recommend this book to anyone with a general interest in American political history, and it certainly must be read by anyone with a particular interest in this period.

The last half of the 19th century is a period that the historians generally give short shrift to. They dutifully plow through it in the obligatory chapter in their rush to get from the Civil War to Teddy Roosevelt, Wilson, and the Progressive Era. The campaign of Grover Cleveland against James Blaine for the presidency in 1884 is just about forgotten. This is too bad because what with the emphasis on character and values (accompanied by some really gross mudslinging), the extensive changes in technology and business, the factionalism and divided government, it was a period much like ours. Summers does an excellent job of dispelling the prevailing view of this period as a doldrum bookended by Lincoln and TR. In a comprehensive yet not overly long book, he shows that substantive issues like the tariff, the relationship of the national government to the states, morality in politics, substance abuse (ie prohibition), and other pressing matters really were at stake, he explores those issues and the men and women who had to face them. This book is one of the best treatments of the 1884 presidential campaign (or any other campaign for that matter) out there. Find a copy of this book and read about a time that is so much like ours.

As an undergraduate at the University of Kentucky some years ago, Professor Mark Summers changed my life and I eventually devoted my life to the study of history. His lectures made the past come alive and seem so fresh and real and vital. Anyone who has read any of his books can relate to the sense of excitement that I am describing, and his latest book is no exception. In fact, it is perhaps his best book yet. Lively, fast-paced, yet scholarly and thought-provoking, Summers' book is everything that his readers have come to expect. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in nineteenth-century politics or U.S. history in general, or for those who consider history dry and boring and would like read a book where the past truly does come to life.

Anyone interested in politics or American history should love this book. The writing style is crisp and entertaining and the author strikes the right balance between explaining long ago and long forgotten events without drowning the reader in unnecesary details. The 1884 election itself was one of the most interesting of our history with sex scandals, charges of political corruption, party splits, and campaign blunders. The author brings the excitement to life and lets the reader understand not only what happened but why it occured and, even more interesting, what the participants had hoped to accomplish with their political strategies. The book succeeds in describing how late 19th century elections looked and felt to the participants. The human dynamic skillfully set out in this book (the cynical maneuverings, the overheated rhetoric, and the intense partisanship)are very familiar with what we experience in campaigns today-this very familiarity helps make Blaine and Cleveland seem real and not just sterile historical figures. Read this book!

Mark Summers is one of the great historians of mid-nineteenth century America. He is fully capable of taking subjects which have seemingly been worked to death and making them fresh with new material and original analysis. Rum Romanism and Rebellion does just that, making Blaine and Cleveland seem more vital and alive than the current occupants of the White House. The issues engage us, the political battle grips us. This is one of the author's best (to my mind, Mr. Summers best work is his two volume work on political corruption [neatly divided between ante-bellum crooks and post-war thieves]; let's hope that Mr. Summers has a trilogy in mind and next turns his attention to wartime corruption: from the transcontinental railroad to the supply of Union soldiers and the appointment of generals, that era was rife with corruption, yet very little has ever been written about it). Well done, Mr. Summers!

In respect to the anniversary of the Rodney King beating, the killing of Sean Bell, the recent beating by Philadelphia policemen, the killing of a 90+ year old woman in Atlanta by a policeman, and the current beating of an innocent black man by Long Island policemen...are all evidence that even though THE SITUATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA is a fictitious story, it's also veritable in many aspects.

When reading this novel, you become a character yourself. Either you find yourself portraying one of the characters that are already depicted in the novel; or, you find yourself modifying the novel to include yourself as a character and taking action against THE SITUATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA.

As for the author, from his bio, you learn that he has had many jobs in his 30+ years; however, there is still a greater plan for him. The way he has written this novel lets us know that a FUTURE POLITICIAN is within him. Also, the sermons that Reverand James preached in the novel lets us know that a future MAN OF THE CLOTH is within him. Also, last but not least, the verbiage and history lets us know that Michael Harriot will continue to write prominent novels and that a PROFESSOR is within him.

I encourage you to read THE SITUATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA and it would make a great FATHER'S DAY GIFT!!!

I usually don't read many fiction novels, but I like a good story. This is a GREAT story. Well written and it hooks you from the first chapter. Not only does the book entertain you, but there are excerpts from the book that deal with actual history.

People from all different faiths will appreciate some of the religious undertones, as well as other GROUPS of people.

I finished the book in two days. I would love to see this novel turn into a movie. It could be on the success level with A Time to Kill, but matching this new millenium story.

Ahmad James - Played by Chris Brown or Lance Gross
Montressor Solomon - Played by Columbus Short
Napoleon James - Louis Gosset Jr.
Officer Coble - Josh Duhamel
Mayor Coble - ?

Well worth your time and money.

The Situation in South Carolina is an great introduction to novelist Michael Harriot. The reader is given a glimpse into Heartstown South Carolina, a town both unique and familiar. The uneasy and sometimes volatile relationship between the African American community and Law enforcement provides the undercurrent for this skillfully, often poetically told story of anguish, revenge, and finally, the hope of redemption. I look forward to more from this author.

Wonderful book and well written. I finished the book the same day.
Can't wait for his next one!

Michael Harriot is a fluent, socially observant writer whose sentences move with intelligence and wit. He compassionately renders unyielding prose that illustrates the veracity of racial iniquity, political corruption, and cultural disparity. The Situation in South Carolina articulates how the most powerful organization in society is deeply rooted in legalized discrimination and entangles its victims into a web of deceit.

For much of American history corrupt police have infringed upon the liberties of oppressed citizens. Always at the mercy of a criminal justice system that unapologetically preferred not to protect them, these citizens remained socially insignificant. When police brutalities lead to the death of a well respected resident, the community decided to take action. They demanded authentic justice. They denounced the authority of the police and refused to allow them into their territory.

The Situation in South Carolina serves as a vehicle that reviles the virulence of racism, retaliation, and redemption. Harriot deftly conveys history with an artistry to capture attention and conjure conversation. He initiates universal dialogue that merits debate from historical scholars to coffee house conversationalists. Harriot should be celebrated for his courage to broach the immensely important, often neglected topic. A spectacular debut, by far!

I had to read this book for my History of Slavery class, thought by the author. Dr. Morgan gave excellent insight in addition to his book. I would suggust this book to anyone for anytype of reading, pleasure and required.

Morgan's analysis will give anyone who wants to know more about slavery an immense amount of material. Comparing the Chesapeake and Lowcountry areas of the American colonies during the eighteenth century, Morgan discusses the economic and cultural sides of the different slave institutions and discusses black-white encounters. No matter how one may try to define slavery in one, distinct way, Morgan shows there is always an exception to that definition. I know Morgan worked for many years to produce this book and that this book is the culmination of an immense amount of research and analysis, but this book would make a larger impact if it was shorter. By the time I was done reading this mammoth book, I had a hard time remembering all the topics he brought up. For any history student, like me, it is worth reading, but make sure you give yourself plenty of time to understand it.

I had the pleasure of listening to this author lecture to in class during my senior year of college. Having the opportunity to discuss this book with the author made Slave Counterpoint come to life. Slave Counterpoint makes the topic of Antebellum slavery captivating for those interested in learning about the early days of slavery in the Cheasapeake Bay region. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who has a sharp curiosity about early colonial history and wishes to be engaged in an honest account of events(I would recommend reading this book a couple of chapeter at a time).

Philip D. Morgan's exhaustively researched and extremely detailed text seeks to compare and contrast the social structure and overall formation of the slave systems of the Chesapeake, VA and Lowcountry, SC regions during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Morgan does not adopt a narrative approach: he offers numerous discussions-all of which are deftly integrated into his descriptive analyses-of how black cultures changed over time. Morgan spends the 700-odd pages eschewing monolithic portrayals of black culture at almost every opportunity, preferring to investigate complexity and contradiction rather than to resort to pithy judgment. This is an excellent, important read.

I have read no better detailed study than this book. Long but worth it due to the rich detail.

I received this book recently, and couldn't put it down until after I perused every page. This book is a remarkable compilation of photos and stories of the rich history of descendants of slaves who planted an indelible mark of courage, perseverance, strength and faith into the lives of everyone and anyone who's ever lived in Spartanburg or surrounding areas. I was born in Spartanburg over 50 years ago, and never knew about the rich heritage and traditions of some of the people who raised and nurtured me during the primary years of my life. This book ignited wonderful memories of the matriachs/patriachs-- who lived in Tobe Hartwell Extension where I lived with my mother, brother and sister--who watched out for your safety. I graduated from Mary H. Wright Elementary, and spent a summer in band practice at the beloved Carver High School just prior to relocating to NY. A few years later, Urban Renewal came in and completely transformed not just my old neighborhood, but the only community I've ever known. Thanks to Beatrice Hill and Brenda Lee for re-planting in our hearts the memories of our beginnings, for re-paving the pain and loss of a thriving and successful African American community, for the rehabilitation of all the parts, pieces and past that they so eloquently portray in this book. Undoubtedly, your heart will be full, page after page, when you read this book. Thanks to Beatrice and Brenda for the gift of the restoration of a historical treasure in my lifetime! M. Drake

This book has truly been a blessing for me. When I received the book in the mail - I could not put it down. I read the book in one sitting.

My late parents were both born and raised in Spartanburg. My father's military career kept him traveling around this country and other parts of the world so my brothers and sisters and myself only knew of Spartanburg through visits. We lived in Spartanburg for one year while our father was stationed in Korea so I don't remember a lot about Spartanburg. I have been attempting to do some research of both sides of my family in Spartanburg. This book has reignited that spark for me to continue.

This book shed a piece of information about my family that I was not aware of and all the rich history of the "South of Main" area that is a must know for all, especially for the black people near and far who have roots in Spartanburg.

God Bless you and thank you Beatrice, Brenda and Raymond for a job well done.

I was anxious to receive my copy of South of Main and my waiting was not in vain. I'm truly Blessed to have come from these roots and be able to claim my portion of such an uplifting heritage. Once, I picked up the book, it was so hard to put it down. I fell asleep a couple times only to wake up with it lying on my chest, ready to dive back into the words that jumped out at me giving me the feeling of being in Spartanburg as a child again. I want to thank all of you who took the time and energy to publish this book. It's very educational and will serve as a source of knowledge for the children and future offsprings that
reside in Spartanburg.

I was very intrigued with all the information about the South side of Spartanburg. I lived there from age 9 until age 17 after I graduated from Carver High. I was not aware of how the area began. Neither was I aware of the role that some of the residents played in establishing the neighborhood. I am looking forward to a sequel to the book that will tell the story of some of the other people that played an important part in establishing the city.

Okay, I'm a tad prejudiced because I'm a native of Spartanburg, SC (the city studied in this book) and I have family members whose photos appear, but I'll keep it objective.

Basically, this is a case study of a Black neighborhood formed by ex-slaves in the above-mentioned city. In spite of Jim Crow, a narrowly-averted race riot in 1917 (described in one oral history by 97-year old Ms. Harriet Dawkins) and attempt to sabatoge their education, these people manage to build a thriving, self-contained community known as the Southside, with it's own hospital, hotel, movie theater, restaurants, Red cross, Boy Scouts, etc. Sort of the (early) Harlem of South carolina's upstate. The book is filled with pictures and oral histories that cover all this.

One particularly inspiring story tells the tale of Cedar Hill Academy. When the School superintendant tries to reduce the level of courses in the city's Black schools in the 1910s, local parents and educators break away and form their own Cedar Hill Academy.

Then in the late 1960s and early 70s, urban renewal comes in and under the guise of promises of better homes, the city all but destroys the Southside. No wonder Dick Gregory has referred to urban renewal as "Negro removal." For the record, the Southside neighborhood and most of its schools still exist, although most of the businesses are gone.

Variations of this story can be told of many other such neighborhoods and cities, and South of Main does a good job as a case study of urban renewal/Negro removal. The large number of oral histories and photos and stories of the Southside's heyday really helps to personalize what many Black neighborhoods were about in the Jim crow era, which is becoming a distant memory.

However, I like the fact that the book does not fall into the foolish trap that some other books of this time do in going too far into glorifying the Jim Crow era. The book makes clear the obstacles that the residents faced in those days and should offer hope for the current generation to escape it's crisis. But all in all, Black history and urban studies fans will find this a worthwhile purchase.

Incidentally, another book that covers some information not included in this about Spartanburg's Black history is "Things Hidden" by Dwain Pruitt which is avaiable mostly in Spartanburg and "Hub City Music Makers," which includes some more information of the "Sparkle City's" major contributions to Black musical history and is also available on Amazon.