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An artistic "gem," (Historical Novel Society) as revealing as it is beautifully told from beloved author "Sean of the South.""The Southern story you've been waiting for." --Patti Callahan Henry, NYT bestselling author"A heartwarming and well-told tale with lyrical writing." --Boo Walker, bestselling authorSometimes it's the most unlikely meetings that give life's greatest gifts.1970s, Southern Alabama. Sixty-two-year-old Jeremiah Lewis Taylor, or "Nub," has spent his whole life listening to those he loves tell him he's no good--first his ex-wife, now his always-disapproving daughter. Sure, his escapades have made him, along with his cousin and perennial sidekick, Benny, just a smidge too familiar with small-town law enforcement, but he's never harmed anyone--except perhaps himself.
Nub never meant to change his ways, but when he and fifteen-year-old Waffle House waitress Minnie form an unlikely friendship, he realizes for the first time that there may be some good in him after all. Six-foot-five Minnie has been dealt a full deck of bad luck--her father is a convicted murderer serving a life sentence, her mother is dead and buried, and she has a Grand Ole Opry-worthy singing voice with no place to perform. Oh, and there's the small fact that she's unexpectedly pregnant, courtesy of a no-good high-school boy.
Gradually, Nub realizes the gift he's been given: a second chance to make a difference.
Beloved Southern writer Sean Dietrich, also known as Sean of the South, once again brings people and places to life in this lyrical song-turned-story about found family, second chances, country music, and the poignant power of love and forgiveness.This standalone novel includes discussion questions, which makes it perfect for book clubs. Also by Sean Dietrich: Over Yonder, The Incredible Winston Browne, Stars of Alabama, and You Are My Sunshine
About the author
Sean Dietrich is a columnist, humorist, multi-instrumentalist, and stand-up storyteller known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared on
The Today Show and in
Newsweek,
Southern Living,
Garden and Gun, and
Reader's Digest. His column appears weekly in newspapers throughout the US. He has authored eighteen books and over four thousand columns. He tours his one-man show throughout the US, makes appearances on the
Grand Ole Opry, hosts the
Sean of the South podcast, and he's a really nice guy. Follow Sean's daily writing at seandietrich.com or @seanofthesouth on Instagram.
Summary
An artistic “gem,” (Historical Novel Society) as revealing as it is beautifully told from beloved author “Sean of the South.” Sometimes it’s the most unlikely meetings that give life’s greatest gifts.
