Before We Were Yours: A Novel Review
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate is a poignant and captivating novel that delves into the lives of two families, two generations apart, and is based on a notorious true-life scandal. The story is set in Memphis, 1939, and Aiken, South Carolina, in the present day.
Features:
- The novel spans 352 pages and is available in English.
- It has a Lexile measure of HL760L and weighs 1.25 pounds.
- The book’s dimensions are 6.4 x 1 x 9.5 inches.
- Best Sellers Rank: #34,404 in Books, including categories such as Mothers & Children Fiction, Women’s Domestic Life Fiction, and Literary Fiction.
- Customer Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 146,103 reviews.
Pros:
- The book is beautifully written, drawing readers into the tragic yet compelling story.
- The characters are well-developed and evoke deep emotional connections.
- It sheds light on the infamous Tennessee Children’s Home Society, offering a real depiction of the terror these children endured.
- The novel is a perfect Young Adult read, engaging readers with its mysterious tale and multiple points of view.
- The story is based on true events, making it ideal for those interested in true crime and survivor stories.
Cons:
- Some readers found the present-day story to be less captivating compared to the historical narrative.
- There were mentions of the present-day story being too lengthy, which could have been edited down to enhance the mystery of the sisters’ past.
Final Thoughts:
Before We Were Yours is a heart-wrenching yet beautifully written novel that offers a thought-provoking and complex tale. It sheds light on a dark chapter in history while portraying the resilience and strength of the human spirit. The book’s ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and its engaging storytelling make it a highly recommended read for those interested in historical fiction and compelling family sagas.