“The Sweetest Thing” is set in the South during the depression. Perri meets Mary Dobbs (and takes an instant dislike to her) on what will turn out to be one of the most traumatic days of her life. Dobbs is determined to befriend Perri and help her cope with the changes that are taking place. Their friendship is put to the test when stolen items are found, when social status is tested, and when boyfriends enter the equation. “The Sweetest Thing” is a coming of age story that follows Perri growing from a self-centered girl to a responsible adult and Dobbs growing away from the faith of her family and determining what she believes and what she wants for her future.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It is a great portrayal of how the depression affected rich and poor alike. There is also a very interesting look at how the “hired help” interacts with the masters of the home. Some of the relationships are openly warm and caring, while others that may seem cold and distant, are caring in a different way. The main theme throughout the book is “The Sweetest Thing” which is the love that ties people together. Most of the characters in the book are not what they seem. The “girl with one thousand dates” (Perri) isn’t as shallow as she once was. Dobbs may seem very confidant but is struggling to understand family secrets and her faith. When love looks under the surface, beneath the facade, true understanding of the inner man is revealed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
No comments:
Post a Comment