Everyone has books that they just can’t get into, and this happens to be one of those books for me. It was super frustrating in the beginning because I just kept zoning out. As I continued to read, it did become a bit easier to concentrate. Around page 70 is when I started gaining interest which is where I started getting into it.

When I first started the book I noticed Frazier had very vivid descriptions on just about everything which is great, but I also think maybe he went a little overboard with it. He seemed to describe everything thoroughly even the smallest of things.  He decided to throw a small war story in the book, but overall I enjoyed the fact that it was based on the people at home during the civil war. In the past I have read books on war, and they are my weakness in reading. I loved how there was two sides ( Ada’s at home and Inman’s traveling.)  Reading Ada’s story about her on the farm was a more laod back read, while Inman’s story was adventurous. Eventually it all began to come together and make sense! To understand the past, Frazier added detailed flashabacks which really helped me get to know the characters, their emotions, and their connections with other characters.

It really pulled on my emotions when Ada was struggling to survive on her own after her father passed away. She was depressed, had no one to talk to, was living off of barely any food, and was hanging on by a string. The character Ruby decided to step up and help Ada make a living. Ruby is kind, caring, and strict. She is willing to work, but definitely won’t have Ada sit back and watch so she puts her to work.

Inman was having a hard time traveling, but he pushed himself and proved his strength. My favorite part on Inman’s side was when he ran into the gypsies/ showfolk. They were so kindhearted and to be honest, I was hoping he’d go along with them for a little longer throughout his long journey.

I believe this story had two themes. One being courage and the other being strength for multiple reasons. Ada showed strength by holding on even after her father’s death. For courage, she let a stranger named Ruby in to help her begin the chores and hard work needed to grow food, trade products, and of course survive. Inman’s character shows incredible mental and physical strength. He’s mentally strong to keep on going even after the war. He saw some vulgar things, yet knows he needs to stay strong and live his life. He also stands up for what he believes in. For example his guilt will eat him alive so when he stole food he left money. The other time is when he tied the preacher to the tree because he believed that was what was right in the preacher’s case. He has tremendous courage. He fought in the civil war, walked for about 12 miles at night knowing he could be in danger, and so much more. I struggle to connect with the characters. I know when I need to show strength, but at the same time I am a very emotional person!

Overall the story was decent, but definitely not my favorite.

After reading the summary, I wasn’t so sure I would enjoy this book. As the book went on, the more I fell in love with it. In they named specific songs and lyrics, which made me super curious to look them up! By doing this I got a better outlook on the time setting. The beginning really grabbed my attention by telling us about Laura’s oddly satisfied smile when Pappy passed away. From there my attention was immediately on the book, and I couldn’t stop reading. As each individual character was introduced in separate chapters, they had perfect descriptions of each. The viewpoint coming from each person made everything super interesting. Throughout the story, there are so many secrets and plot twists! I have to admit the racism  made me cringe, and that is the primary reason I have a hatred towards Pappy. When Pappy was introduced he announced his son in laws death by saying “that stuck-up husband of your sister’s has gone and killed himself.” The moment he walked into the story, I hated him and his cold heart.

I admired the way Hillary Jordan threw in the love story of Laura and Henry because I am most definitely a hopeless romantic. Laura is pretty, but she was living with her family until she was about 30. When Henry came along she was immediately in love, heartbroken, then in love again. Laura was one of the most interesting people because she was holding so much emotion and secrets inside. She was NOT happy with moving, and was disgusted with the farm which was soon named Mudbound. She was constantly biting her tongue when Pappy talked down on her or was just plain ignorant. She kept her feelings for Jamie completely hidden, but her face and actions told it all.

Henry on the other hand was 100% happy with the farm, and treated it like it was his baby. I loved his character at the beginning, but as I kept reading my opinion changed. He follows his father’s footsteps even if he doesn’t agree. He doesn’t seem to spend much time with his wife and kids much either. He is a bit confused why his wife is miserable, but he doesn’t even try to look at it from her viewpoint. I like the fact that he is living his dream, but in my eyes he just seems like a selfish person.

You already know how I feel about Pappy. He’s so disrespectful to his own family whom he should be showing appreciation and love for. He is spoiled to be living with the Mcallan’s, but he isn’t thankful for them at all. Don’t even get me started on his racism. He treats colored people like they’re dogs which made me so angry! He destroyed his own son, Jamie’s confidence, and sadly had Henry sticking up for him. All in all Pappy is a disgusting, lazy, cold hearted man.

Jamie is a charming character who has all of the girls wanting him, which explains Laura’s temptations. Jamie went to war and ever since has been going insane. He claims that alcohol is his medicine and helps.  Him and Ronsel soon become close friends, but this is followed by a tragedy. He’s not scared to stand up for what he believes in though, and that earns my respect right away. He may be destroying himself with alcohol, but he is no doubt my favorite character in the entire book.

Ronsel is a brave man who decided to fight for his country. He stands up for people who have a hatred towards his color. If you ask me, that’s a strong man. He is very respectful, but hides many secrets. He fell in love with a white woman and soon finds out he has a son with her. He will do anything to get to them, but the tragedy changes his life. We will never know what he does with his life because of the cliff hanger at the end! Ronsel is a fine man with a big heart.

Florence and Hap are two characters that I adore the most. They take care of their children, and look at the best of every situation. They do what they have to in order to live a happy life. They dodge situations that aren’t easy to deal with in their time. No matter what though, they are God’s children and do anything to please the people around them

This was an excellent story, and kept me wanting more! I enjoyed reading it and am amazed of how much it taught me as a reader! Although, I cringed and teared up throughout the story, I am super satisfied.

Hey guys! My name is Destiny Allen, and I’m here to tell you a little bit about myself!

I was born in Maryland, and moved to West Virginia when I was about 2 years old. Although I will always love my home; I am very eager to travel the world. My parents divorced when I was 13, but it took me 3 years to accept it and learn to just let go of the anger. I am extremely thankful for both of my parents doing everything they can for my brother and I. Speaking of my brother, he has a 2 year old daughter who happens to be my everything!

When I was 7 I decided to try out soccer, and let me just say it didn’t work out so well. I was the little girl picking flowers and doing cartwheels on the field during the game. From there I knew I wanted to begin gymnastics and cheer! I have been cheering for 10 years, but have decided to let go of it my junior year.  I will be in the student section for the first time my senior year, and I’m extremely excited! My main focus will be on school, and preparing myself to be the absolute best I can to get myself where I need to be for college.  Ever since I was younger I wanted to be a teacher, but this past year my mind has completely changed.  I took a teacher preparation class that showed me exactly what it took to be a teacher, and had multiple hands on activities to show me what it really felt like. That is not the path I want to take , and am now looking into hospitality.

I love to read, and can read just about anywhere. If I am really into a book, I can block out every noise that some people consider distractions. My number one pet peeve is spelling,  ESPECIALLY the difference between their, they’re, and there. I’m sure I can continue writing pages upon pages on myself, but I would rather read about each and everyone of you. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be in this class!

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