Alabama Books

This book was amazing. How could one person endure so much. Determination is the key.

This book had me wanting to jump in and help her. I've always heard of God Fearing Women but this lady took it to a level that I NEVER could imaging. She had exactly what she need towards the end but her promise to God kept her stronger than any women that I know of. I found a little of myself in her but she was a trooper and for that I praise God.

I read this book in one day, I couldn't put it down. The story tore my heart out, such a great read. One of the best books I've read in a long time.

I always love to read Ms. Mallette's books. Her books are always thought provoking, outstanding, page-turners, with characterizations that just jump right off the pages.

In reading Weeping Willows Dance, you will feel the mental and physical abuse young Mozelle Tate endured from her much older husband Randell because that was what women were taught back during that time just to "suck it up." But through her strong faith in God and determination Mozelle lived to see the dream she had come true.

This book is my No.1 read for 2008!!!

This book is exceptional. I rate it a 10. The storyline is set in a time where women knew no better and did what they had to do for their children, even if the man is lower than Whales "S". This was a Strong, Strong, woman. This is a must read. Wow!

After reading this book, I have put it number one on my list of all time favorites. Previously, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers held this spot. Charles Martin is an amazing author. I read Chasing Fireflys first and enjoyed it very much, then I read Wrapped in Rain and was held captive by this story. Let me just make it short and sweet, if you love a good story which has depth, believable characters, realistic portrayals, beautifully woven themes, powerfully descriptive language, and is a joy to read, this is the one! Also, a note, I see this is a Women of Faith book, but I bought a copy for my son, it is not a woman's book or a man's book, just a great book that everyone should enjoy.

I really love this author he is a great writer and always has great underlying messages

I note that there is only one other somewhat unfavorable review of this book. I'll say the one nice thing first -- Martin's writing is "pretty." When he describes something, I get a good picture of it in my head. Unfortunately, he uses lengthy descriptive passages of minor events that don't build the story line; it almost seems like filler and can be very boring. His characters are not to be believed. His story line is not believable. What happened to the mothers of these two boys? Why would the mothers give them up so easily? Where were the police when Miss Ella was beaten silly by Rex??? Where was social services when the boys were beaten silly by Rex??? Why didn't Mose beat the heck out of Rex??? Did the two boys stay in the house all the time by themselves, only visited by Miss Ella during the day? Come on. I've read several of Charles Martin's books. I'm beginning to think he had a horrible childhood because he either never mentions characters' parents in his books, or when he does, they are unbelievably abusive. Should have borrowed this one from the library. Wasn't worth the $$$$.

Wrapped in Rain by Charles Martin was difficult to get into, to be honest. I picked it up about two years ago, but when about 60 pages into it, I knew more about a truck-stop prostitute (who was an oversized prop--and when I say oversized, I mean oversized) than I did the story itself, I put it back down. But on the encouragement of a friend, I tried again. I'm glad I did.

Wrapped in Rain is about Tucker Mason and his brother Matthew (a.k.a. Mutt) coming to terms with their messed-up past (namely, a father who's frequent absences was preferred to his abusive presence), forgiving daily, and learning to freely love. The only redeeming aspect of their childhood was Miss Ella Rain, their nanny/housekeeper, who loved them as if they were her own and who fought for them when they couldn't fight anymore.

The story begins when Mutt, who suffers from a personality disorder because of his past, escapes from the mental health facility. At the same time, Tucker runs into his childhood girlfriend, Katie, and her son, Jase, on the run from Katie's husband, who's been abusing them. Reunited, Tucker, Katie, Mutt, and now Jase, learn to live together, love each other, and work through their issues.

The prose is flawless and beautiful, although at times superfluous (i.e. the description of the truck-stop prostitute and other well-written but long descriptions of local color). Sometimes the story seems too convenient (i.e. how Tucker runs into Katie and the subplot of Katie running from her ex, which wraps up too neatly, I think), but the emotions and inner struggle encapsulates what it means to forgive every day. Because of the nature of the story, backstory is integral, but it's overwhelming. At times it felt a little like this: I walked through the field. It reminded me of the time when...backstory...On the other side, I met Katie...then Katie shares her backstory through one-sided dialogue...We walked back together like we did that day when we were...another backstory.

I'm exaggerating. Slightly.

All in all, I'm glad I gave the story another try, and I'll read more Charles Martin because I like the flow of his prose and the development of his main characters. The prologue in the beginning kept me going through the slow story development. If you're willing to persevere through the beginning, I recommend it.

This was such a unique book. It wasn't close to what I expected. Two boys, who live with their father in Alabama, are pretty much raised by their housekeeper, Ella Rain. Their father is very abusive and it impacts the boys life in drastic ways. Tucker, a photographer, is running from himself and the person he does not want to become. Mutt is in a mental hospital dealing with his demons and the voices inside his head. When Mutt escapes from the hospital and Katie, an old girlfriend, appears with her son and a black eye, Tucker is forced to return home and face his tragic past. This books brings faith and hope together with great character development and a very unique story line. One of those I whipped through and did not want to put down.

If you are looking for a book that uses current lingo that is so easy to understand then this is the book for you. Like me you have probably read the prosperity Masters and yes, the lessons are timeless, however to read modern day examples are priceless! I felt as if I knew Ms. Gaines personally. Her stories were hilarious, thought provoking and a blessing to my life. I dare you to try the first law which is tithing and watch something miraculous happen in your life! We all have read or heard about tithing but Ms. Gaines breaks it down like its never been broken down before. I was so moved I tithed to her for writing this classic! Don't pass this book up! Every seeker needs this one in their prosperity library!

I heard it many times before - tithing will demonstrate to the universe that you trust that there will always be more.... yet I never did it. That is until I read this book. What made it easy for me where 2 things, one Edwene didn't tell you where to tithe to, other then wherever you are spiritually fed.... well that makes it easy. The second point was - try it out for 6 months - if it didn't work for you you can stop.... well I was hooked after 2 weeks. Now I receive money and I am excited about sharing it with whoever inspired me ~ fed me spiritual food... my children, my church, Edwene, a speaker, a song writer, etc. This book has touched me deeply.

This is a great book. I listened to it first on CD and loved the author's chatty wisdom. I bought the book so I could refer back to it often. A small book but full of very important spiritual laws.

Listening to this CD, with Edwene's pleasant voice along with hearing her life experiences, is a pleasant alternative to music. I'm listening to it for the third time and considering looking for more CD's from this production company.

I absolutely LOVED this book! I've been reading several books about attracting prosperity, but they were all lacking one thing. That one thing is how God is involved. This book finally connected the two for me. I now see how you can attract prosperity and still honor God. What I appreciated the most what the difference between "go" signs and "stop" signs. Sometimes I get confused on what God is trying to tell me. I recommend this to all those spiritual people that are still trying to find guidance.

I was fortunate enough to see the Gee's Bends quilts when they toured in Houston, and they are astonishingly beautiful. The women who made these quilts found an artistic outlet in their functional craft, and these quilts represent the truest form of modern art, sewn well before painters used oil and canvas that mimic the quilt designs. This book does a beautiful job of presenting the quilts for the enjoyment of all those who can't see them in person.

In July 2006, I saw the exhibit of the Quilts of Gees Bend at the DeYoung Museum in San Francisco I didn't fully realize the importance of the quilts, so I didn't buy the book and regretted it. The quilts and their story, are haunting. Since then I have heard the quilts referred to as the the most outstanding example of US art.

Whenever I talked to quilters, I wished that I had the book to show them. Now I have it and I am very happy with the purchase. The book is beautiful and the photograhs of the quilts are great.

Because of the personal stories, the beautiful layout and large, clear colorful pictures this book was like candy to read. I learned about the history of the area, the closeness of the community and families, and the sharing and pride of a folk art. I love when people find an outlet for their art in surprising and practical ways.

The book "The Quilts of Gee's Bend" by William Arnett is a great book of history within a particular culture that is rich in resourcefulness and creativity. It easy to read if one enjoys life stories that are true and down to earth. The pictures complete the full circle of this culture- use what is available and enjoy the outcome. The world could learn a lot from this book. The Quilts of Gee's Bend: Masterpieces from a Lost Place

I remember the first time I saw photographs of the quilts of Gee's Bend in a magazine about seven years ago. I couldn't wait to learn about the amazing artists whose vision the quilts portray. This book is more outstanding than I imagined it could be. It is powerful, beautiful, sensitive, and historically accurate. I recommend The Quilts of Gee's Bend to anyone with an eye for artistic genius and a love for discovering a community of women willing to express themselves outside the box of convention. How refreshing and inspiring! Simply Exceptional!!

I just stumbled across this book in the Birmingham Museum of Art and what a delightful surprise! What a showcase of Alabama women's writing talents. From silly to serious, this book covers it all, from crib to cradle. It left me asking when's the next one coming out and where can I get it!

What an excellent display of the talents of Alabama writers! Alabama is often the brunt of "good ole boy" jokes, skipping over the intelligence and versatility of the abundance of talent found in Alabama. Anyone can relate to this book---from grandmothers and grandfathers and "hard times" which are displayed profusely. Hats off to the contributors to this book and for the editor for taking the time to introduce these poems to America!

Ordinary and Sacred as Blood makes me feel at home among writers--Alabama women writers who have shared their inmost thoughts from every cranny of the state. The variety of their experiences and the ways they have chosen to express them are appealing--poetry, memoir, essay, story. I'm still reading, and I've enjoyed every one--from our wonderful just-retired poet laureate Helen Blackshear to Helen Norris to Susan Murphy and Nabella Shunnarah, from Anne George to Natasha Tretheway to others whose voices are new to me. I look forward to the next chapter from this group.

Alabama authors have stepped forth to share short stories, poems and quips that will lift the heart of the reader. Ordinary & Sacred as Blood, authored by Alabama women, will trigger your every emotion. It truly promises and delivers something for everyone. You'll treasure this book forever. Delightful, thoughtful way to remember those on your gift list.

wonderful, folksy reading with home folks. Alabama Christmas by Charlotte Miller very sweet.Mamie was a Slave by Helen Blackshear gives insight into other days.

I am a huge Rick Bragg fan, and enjoyed this collection of his previously published newspaper articles.

Bragg's writing is powerfully humanizing. It's also beautiful and inspiring to read, not just because of the subjects he chooses, but in his prose. Wonderful light reading, and the short newspaper-story formats make it ideal for travel reading.

Rick Bragg knows how to capture a readers attention by his style of get to the point writing. No boring, drawn out, unneccessary words or wording. Very refreshing read. A chance to learn things about ordinary people and events that you may have never heard about or known. Thought provoking. This should be the next read in Oprah's book club.

If you loved Ava's man, all over but the Shoutin, etc., as I did you might be disappointed. These are simply news stories from his paper days. Well written but just news.

This book is the newpaper stories by Rick Bragg.If you like his style of writting, this book is one of his best.Moving stories about ordinary individualsat the moments that are most revealing.Rick Bragg makes you feel like you are there with him in each story.

My purchase of Bay Tables through Amazon was 'painless'! It is very easy to order through Amazon and the ship time is always very quick. I continue to order through Amzon because of the reliability.

If you are from the Mobile, Alabama area you probably have one of these on your kitchen shelf but just incase you are not you need this, your Momma needs it, your grand mama needs it, and most of all your sister-in-law that cant cook needs it!

It has all of the "Old South" recipes in it plus a treasure trove of new and fun recipes. Women in the south take great pride in their cooking and this is a perfect example of a fine cook!

Thank you Junior League ladies for putting out another great book for us to enjoy for generations to come!

I love the cover and beautiful pictures. The recipes are lovely!

This is a very pretty book. I especially like reading the sidebars that tell about local history and food history and the area, and League projects. Many of the recepies are easy to fix for someone that doesn't usually use fancy cookbooks. They seem to have put a lot of effort into making the book a really fun one to just look at and read. I enjoy that.You will enjoy having this book around the house.

Bay Tables showcases some three hundred kitchen tested culinary compositions donated by members of the Junior League of Mobile, Alabama. From Peach Julips; Blue Cheese Souffles; Grilled Corn with Shallot Thyme Butter; Roasted Vegetable Pizza; and Grilled Marinated Portobello Mushrooms and Fresh Vegetables; to Pork Tenderloins with Caramelized Pears and Brandy Cream Sauce; Oysters Johnny Reb; and Lemon Buttermilk Ice Cream, Bay Tables offers a wealth of highly recommended, consistently delicious, appetite satisfying fare that would please even the most discriminating gourmet -- and yet are completely "kitchen cook friendly" to prepare and serve.

This is not only an exquisitely written book filled with spot-on dialogue -- it has a highly cinematic sensibility and would translate well to cinema. They say there is a scarcity of strong, well-developed roles for women in film; well, here, in Patricia Morelos, is one that is most definitely Oscar caliber. I had the privilege of meeting the writer at a conference recently and, like everyone else in the group, was stunned by her abilities as a writer and born ranconteur. (Linda is also an amazing painter as well!) It is quite difficult for a writer to create such an intricate, tightly woven plot that flows organically and Linda has done it here. The vivid descriptions of Mexico make the reader feel as though they are really on this journey along with the characters. I look forward to reading Linda's next book; she's a natural, easily on par with or above many of the top novelists writing today.

This book was very entertaining and hard to put down. I can't wait to read her next novel!

A spellbinding story come alive by stephanie Brush and her awe inspiring acting skills. Her multilingual dialict is right 'on point.' A fine actress. The listener is swept along. A real tribute to the novel. Don't miss this CD!

Author of The Citrus Baron, a family saga of old Florida

"My heart skipped more than a few beats as intrigue, love and Mexican lore, swept me into the ebb and flow of The Second Milagro. Linda Rainwater has a vivid imagination. Rich, detailed text moved me from being a mere reader to become one with the protagonist. Linda has a true gift in the art of story telling!"

Linda Rainwater takes her readers on a suspense-filled journey through time. Though most of the action is set in Mexico, one of the best "miracles" takes place within the reader, who learns, along with character Patricia Morelos, the freeing power of truth!

...you won't want this book to end. It takes you to another time and place and makes you contemplate the importance of family and faith. My reading group loved this book, and you will too.

This book is full of interesting characters and is descriptive of the time and circumstances the Carbon Hill family survives. Congratulations to Ginny on publishing a novel full of great imagery, likable characters, and an engaging plot.

This is a must read.. Gin Phillips take s you into an era where the country is coming of age. The characters deal with with social issues such as race, poverty and mental illnes. As you read You become part of this family and you see life through their eyes. I truly feel that this book should be a required reading in colleges and High Schools.

even if "southern fiction" isn't your thing, this book will sneak its way into your mind, and then stay for a while. written with superb detail, it makes our modern day life come up a little short. it's a quick and easy read, but has so much depth in the substories. much much more than a simple book about a well or a mine, this is definitely worth your time. what an impressive debut novel.

This lovely book typlifies what is characterized as Southern fiction -- a beautiful story told without irony. The difference is that four points of view are employed, each a distinct voice. Told from a perspective of years in some cases, this tale of a family in Alabama in 1931 breathes vibrancy into the landscape and its inhabitants. Daily lives are examined. And it's refreshing to meet a family that really cares about one another, realistically.

Alabama Moon is a very interesting and enterpising young man. Raised in the woods by his surviorists father, he is very self relient, yet when circumstances bring him into civilization, he quickly adapts to his new enviroment.
I highly recommend this book to sixth and seventh graders espicailly the boys.

Alabama moon is a very adventurous tale with lots of facts about the woods. And its so good I got up in the morning and read it until it was bedtime. I rate it 5 stars, my favorite book yet (even better then the golden compass and man was that gooooood.)

This book is abselutely action-packed, full of adventure and shocking endings (made me cry when I read the shocking ending.) Some parts just makes you want to say "OOHH DDAARRNNIITT! But it's still the best book I have read in my whole entire life! This book is so great, I would give it 100,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 stars!

My 11 year-old is a reluctant reader, but every now and then a book comes along that keeps his interest even when it is not "reading time". This is one of those books. Moon Blake is a compelling character, having grown up in the woods with his reclusive father. And his story is captivating. He just wants to be left alone to go to Alaska, but he's picked up and taken to a boys home instead. I love how the story evolves, how you see Moon change his ideas of the world, and how he deals with the abusive constable who won't leave him alone.

A terrific book you won't be able to put down.

This book begs for a sequel and soon, too. We--we readers--have to know what happened to Moon and to Hal...What happens to them as they grow, mature, and face their young adult high school and college days? And when they grow up, get married and have families of their own...As they approach old age...Will they, can they, escape (overcome) the events described here in the formative days of their youth. Rarely has a book cried out for a sequel more than this one.

In fact, Mr. Key may have his own cottage industry here, a book on their continuing relationship (Moon and Hal) and/or single books on each boy.
Mark Twain did it and did it well with Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer. Mr. Key has the same oportunity here. Here's hoping he's up to the opportunity--not the "task," but the "opportunity."

Orginally written as a book for teens and a little older, Alabama Moon has touched all and stirred the slumbering chords of all generations as it deals with youth, growing, up, family, love and lack thereof.

Outstanding. Don't miss it.