Gathering Pecans

by Wimberley Watts

It is 1945, when the once-dynamic Henry Bagby returns to his Deep South roots after two years of fighting in a horrific war. But as he settles back into life on his family’s Alabama cotton farm, he has no idea he is about to meet a girl with a secret who will change everything. At the urging of his mother, Henry returns to college, where he and Sarah Raynes quickly become acquainted. Sarah, who rebuffs Henry’s advances at first, eventually falls for his charm and quick wit. After the two fall in love, Henry creates a pecan orchard for Sarah, but in the end, it is surprisingly reserved for another—his ethereal daughter, Elizabeth, who comes into the world with her own secrets and a divine purpose. Gathering Pecans is the endearing story of one family’s heartwarming journey through the generations, from the cotton fields of Alabama to the hills of Afghanistan, as they come to the realization that there is only one true connection in life—God.

478 pages, Hardcover

First published October 7, 2013

Reviews

[Mauoijenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!!
As a southern girl, I am trying to read as many "southern fiction" books I can get my hands on. Gathering Pecans was an absolute gem to come across. I feel in love with the characters and the writing was beautiful. I admit I was teary eyed during some parts of this book and just couldn't get enough of it. Excellent read!!!

[JeffandDonita Hinckley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful story. I would definitely recommend this book. Although fiction the author draws you in with real places, people and events that are easily recognized. With Elizabeth knowing His plans beforehand brought a certain element to the story that was both encouraging and sad. God had a plan from the beginning as always and it would be fulfilled no matter what.

[Shannan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book should have been a series so that the author could develop the characters more fully. I hated Vivian, then loved her, but I didn't get to understand why. I loved Henry, then hated him, and I never got to forgive him for being a jackass. Elizabeth was adorable, then suddenly incredibly annoying. Given more space, I think I could have liked all of the characters more and the story would have had more meaning for me. As it were, I felt like the book went into warp speed after Elizabeth was born, and I just couldn't suspend my disbelief sufficiently at that rate.

[Don · Rating 5 out of 5]

I especially liked the first two-thirds of the book. There were parts of the last third that I liked, but just didn't care for the Afgan setting.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is about a Southern family, the Bagbys, particularly Henry, Sarah and Elizabeth Bagby. The story begins in 1945 when Elizabeth’s father Henry returns from WWII and meets Sarah. The book is divided into three distinct parts, much of which focuses on a comparison of Judaism, Christianity, and the Muslim religions. The book ends two days in New York two days before the terrorist attacks of 9/11. As a whole the book is well written, but there are several major grammatical and spelling errors that escaped the editor’s red pen and really made me cringe.

[bobbie skelton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolute Must Read

I ha e always had so many questions about my religion and those of others and this book gave m great pause to think. The underlying human story is just fascinating.

[Don Mcclarin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love love love the messages throughout the book. I was dismayed early on at the lack of writing complexity, but eventually the progressive Christianity won me over. I didn’t need convincing, as this is my spiritual worldview as well, but it was nice to read it shared in a story version.

[Lynn Raye Harris]

Read this for book club.

[Sara Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read! Love story that turns into something else entirely. Read it and you'll see why I consider it very enlightening. I think anyone would enjoy and benefit from reading it, but if you live in Huntsville, it's required reading!

[Brent Bridges · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and powerful read. Three very distinct parts to the story with the third taking you into an unexpected, but thought-provoking and moving third section. I read that part in one sitting. There are many paths to God. Love God. Love others. Live in grace and peace.

[Linda Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book! It is a must read. Excellent character development.

[Judy Masters · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book that reads as two books. Each story very different. Elizabeth growing up in Alabama, and Elizabeth the Episcopal priest/peace maker. A little loose on the Theology but very enjoyable.

[Betty Hornsby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bring your Kleenex- awesome book!

[Lara Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

This started out as a simple story and became something much better and complex. Pretty good read.