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Feral Maril & Her Little Brother Carol
Bright but unassuming Marilyn Jones has some grown-up decisions to make, especially after Mama goes to prison for drugs and larceny. With no one to take care of them, Marilyn and her younger, mentally challenged brother, Carol, get tossed into the foster care system. While shuffling from one home to another, Marilyn makes it her mission to find the Tan Man, a mysterious man from her babyhood she believes holds the key to her family's happiness.
But Marilyn's quest is halted when her daddy, an ex-con she has never met, is chosen by the courts as the new guardian. Caleb Jones wants something more than a father-daughter relationship. He sends Carol far away, where the boy won't be a hindrance to his plans. Marilyn devises a plan of her to locate her little brother, kidnap him, and run away.
Independence, however, often comes at a high price.
As Marilyn weathers the unexpected and often brutal storms of her childhood and adolescence, hope becomes her ally as she winds through small southern towns, wrapping herself around an assortment of hearts along the way. With a little help from a caring social worker, a carnival of misfits, her first true love, and even the elusive Tan Man himself, Marilyn will discover that "family" isn't always what we imagine it to be.
CIBA Award Finalist.
The Letter Review Award Semi-finalist.
Santa Fe Literary Review Semi-finalist.
"Readers don't just follow Marilyn's journey. They come to love her." ~ D. Donovan, Senior Editor, Midwest Book Review
"An original, unpredictable tale seen through the eyes of a child forced to grow up too soon...bittersweet." ~ Readers' Favorite Review
"A dazzling piece that delves deep into the themes of survival, the casualties of self-discovery, and the power of familial ties." ~ Prairies Book Review
"A remarkable exploration into the resilience of the human spirit." ~ Literary Titan Review
But Marilyn's quest is halted when her daddy, an ex-con she has never met, is chosen by the courts as the new guardian. Caleb Jones wants something more than a father-daughter relationship. He sends Carol far away, where the boy won't be a hindrance to his plans. Marilyn devises a plan of her to locate her little brother, kidnap him, and run away.
Independence, however, often comes at a high price.
As Marilyn weathers the unexpected and often brutal storms of her childhood and adolescence, hope becomes her ally as she winds through small southern towns, wrapping herself around an assortment of hearts along the way. With a little help from a caring social worker, a carnival of misfits, her first true love, and even the elusive Tan Man himself, Marilyn will discover that "family" isn't always what we imagine it to be.
CIBA Award Finalist.
The Letter Review Award Semi-finalist.
Santa Fe Literary Review Semi-finalist.
"Readers don't just follow Marilyn's journey. They come to love her." ~ D. Donovan, Senior Editor, Midwest Book Review
"An original, unpredictable tale seen through the eyes of a child forced to grow up too soon...bittersweet." ~ Readers' Favorite Review
"A dazzling piece that delves deep into the themes of survival, the casualties of self-discovery, and the power of familial ties." ~ Prairies Book Review
"A remarkable exploration into the resilience of the human spirit." ~ Literary Titan Review
385 pages, Paperback
Published April 16, 2024
1 person is currently reading
2791 people want to read
About the author
Leslie Tall Manning
7 books239 followersLeslie Tall Manning is an award-winning novelist who loves writing about grown-ups (GAGA, MAGGIE’S DREAM, KNOCK ON WOOD, and FERAL MARIL & HER LITTLE BROTHER CAROL) and young adults (UPSIDE DOWN IN A LAURA INGALLS TOWN, I AM ELEPHANT, I AM BUTTERFLY, and RULES OF FALLING). She especially loves digging into universal ideas such as friendship, bravery, and self-forgiveness. When she's not spending quality time with the characters in her head, she speaks at libraries, schools, and book clubs. She is proudly represented by Uwe Stender at the TriadaUS Literary Agency, and is currently working on an historical fiction bildungsroman.
A bit about Leslie the Reader: She's been reading since the age of five and creating stories since she was six. As a former English teacher and current private tutor, she gets to re-read classics as well as jump into newer books. Her personal reading tastes are eclectic, but she can get into most genres (no erotica, super fantasy, or series) as long as the book is well written.
Some writing accolades:
Indie Brag Award
Firebird Literary Award
Sarton Women's Literary Award
North Carolina Author Project Award
Taleflick Road to Development Finalist
Taleflick Top Pick
William Faulkner Words and Wisdom Finalist
Story Monsters Certificate of Excellence
Library Journal Self-e Selection
International Book Award Finalist
Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Finalist
Readers' Favorite Bronze Medal Winner
North Street Book Prize Longlist
Historical Fiction Competition Finalist
Readers' Choice Award
CIBA Finalist
The Letter Review Longlist
Santa Fe Literary Review Longlist
A bit about Leslie the Reader: She's been reading since the age of five and creating stories since she was six. As a former English teacher and current private tutor, she gets to re-read classics as well as jump into newer books. Her personal reading tastes are eclectic, but she can get into most genres (no erotica, super fantasy, or series) as long as the book is well written.
Some writing accolades:
Indie Brag Award
Firebird Literary Award
Sarton Women's Literary Award
North Carolina Author Project Award
Taleflick Road to Development Finalist
Taleflick Top Pick
William Faulkner Words and Wisdom Finalist
Story Monsters Certificate of Excellence
Library Journal Self-e Selection
International Book Award Finalist
Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Finalist
Readers' Favorite Bronze Medal Winner
North Street Book Prize Longlist
Historical Fiction Competition Finalist
Readers' Choice Award
CIBA Finalist
The Letter Review Longlist
Santa Fe Literary Review Longlist
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 16, 2024
This book was a great summer read. It went with me from the beach to the pool and definitely looked like it! I really couldn't put it down, which is a testament to the building of the characters and what was going to happen to them. Whether you know a little or a lot about the current state of our foster care system, Feral Maril was a wake up call that our country still has so far to go in taking care of the most important of our citizens, its children. The statistics after the story are very sad and made the book come alive, even after it ended. Two thumbs up Leslie Tall Manning.
April 19, 2024
Storytelling at its best! I was spellbound from page one. Ten stars.
I read a lot and enjoy most books that I read but this book had me entranced immediately and I do not get that feeling often, rarely actually. Most are entertaining but this book was on a level of superiority all by itself. I was literally spellbound from page one. I only put this book down when forced by circumstances. If you like heartwarming but tragic stories with as many uplifting moments as calamitous ones, please read this book. I loved Marilyn, Carol, Mrs. Chang, the Tuckers, the ethereal character “Tan Man” and a few others along the way. Is there a real “Tan Man” about whom Marilyn attributes so many good events in her life? That’s the thing about this story, while she has tremendously awful things happen to her, she has almost as many serendipitous ones that just fall in her lap at the most ideal time.
The blurb gives you a very basic synopsis of this phenomenal story which is told in six parts. Each one telling of a significant shift in her fortunes whether up or down. This is a perfect book for book clubs and as such the author provides thoughtful questions for conversation. On a scale of one to five, this book is a ten! I volunteered to read an ARC of it through BookSirens. Oh! Get a box of tissues too. Loved the cover…
I read a lot and enjoy most books that I read but this book had me entranced immediately and I do not get that feeling often, rarely actually. Most are entertaining but this book was on a level of superiority all by itself. I was literally spellbound from page one. I only put this book down when forced by circumstances. If you like heartwarming but tragic stories with as many uplifting moments as calamitous ones, please read this book. I loved Marilyn, Carol, Mrs. Chang, the Tuckers, the ethereal character “Tan Man” and a few others along the way. Is there a real “Tan Man” about whom Marilyn attributes so many good events in her life? That’s the thing about this story, while she has tremendously awful things happen to her, she has almost as many serendipitous ones that just fall in her lap at the most ideal time.
The blurb gives you a very basic synopsis of this phenomenal story which is told in six parts. Each one telling of a significant shift in her fortunes whether up or down. This is a perfect book for book clubs and as such the author provides thoughtful questions for conversation. On a scale of one to five, this book is a ten! I volunteered to read an ARC of it through BookSirens. Oh! Get a box of tissues too. Loved the cover…
May 21, 2024
It's been a long time since I cheered on the main character in a book in such a strong way. I couldn't put this book down. I first wanted to read it because of the title FERAL MARIL & HER LITTLE BROTHER CAROL. That is such a catchy title and different than I the books I had chosen in the past.
Then the author, Leslie Tall Manning, gave the me the 16-year-old character named Marilyn, and the story is told through her point of view. I wanted to wrap my arms around Marilyn and tell her that life is going to be okay. She reminded me of so many of my past students that didn't have an easy upbringing. Marilyn is fierce and loves with her whole heart. She especially loves her little brother, Carol, who has autism. I have a special place in my heart for kids with autism, and I loved his character. Manning does a great job of portraying him throughout the story. She also shows how sibling love can be intense and take up your whole heart.
This book will have you feeling all of the feels. It made me laugh, cry, get mad, and be happy, sometimes all in one chapter. It sheds light on the foster care system in our country, which sometimes works well and sometimes it doesn't.
I gave this book five stars because I didn't want the book to end. I hope that there will be a sequel one day.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for my free copy. This is my honest review.
Then the author, Leslie Tall Manning, gave the me the 16-year-old character named Marilyn, and the story is told through her point of view. I wanted to wrap my arms around Marilyn and tell her that life is going to be okay. She reminded me of so many of my past students that didn't have an easy upbringing. Marilyn is fierce and loves with her whole heart. She especially loves her little brother, Carol, who has autism. I have a special place in my heart for kids with autism, and I loved his character. Manning does a great job of portraying him throughout the story. She also shows how sibling love can be intense and take up your whole heart.
This book will have you feeling all of the feels. It made me laugh, cry, get mad, and be happy, sometimes all in one chapter. It sheds light on the foster care system in our country, which sometimes works well and sometimes it doesn't.
I gave this book five stars because I didn't want the book to end. I hope that there will be a sequel one day.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for my free copy. This is my honest review.
December 22, 2025
What a beautifully written, heartfelt book. I was genuinely invested in this story, and cried when the story ended.
May 23, 2024
Highly engaging, uplifting exploration of what it means to be family. Insightful glimpse of the foster care system. The characters, well, most of them, won my heart.
April 23, 2024
Feral Maril and Her Little Brother Carol, by Leslie Tall Manning, is a remarkable exploration into the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The story, centering on siblings Maril and Carol, is a moving portrayal of their journey through a tumultuous childhood.
This coming-of-age story starts by setting the scene in a troubled household. Maril, the older sister, is portrayed as a fiercely protective and resourceful figure who assumes the role of a guardian for her younger brother, Carol. This dynamic forms the crux of the story, as their bond is tested and strengthened through various trials. The characters are well-developed, with Maril’s strength and Carol’s innocence creating a compelling contrast that drives the narrative.
Manning’s writing shines in its ability to convey complex emotions and situations with sensitivity and clarity. The portrayal of the children’s mother is particularly nuanced, avoiding one-dimensional characterizations and instead presenting a figure who is as flawed and human as she is troubled. This gives the story a realistic feel, making the characters’ struggles all the more relatable and heart-wrenching.
One of the things I found most striking about the novel is its exploration of the theme of family. The book delves into what it means to be a family in the most challenging circumstances, highlighting not just the biological ties but the emotional and psychological bonds that hold a family together. The resilience of Maril and Carol as they navigate the foster care system and face various challenges is a testament to the strength of these bonds.
The author’s ability to blend emotional depth with a compelling narrative is one thing I enjoyed most about this book. The story flows seamlessly, with each chapter adding a new layer to the characters’ journey. The novel touches on important social issues such as the impact of parental issues on children and the challenges within the foster care system. Manning handles these topics with a deft hand, providing insight without becoming preachy. This balance is difficult to achieve, yet I feel Manning does so with ease.
Feral Maril and Her Little Brother Carol is an emotionally charged novel that leaves a lasting impression. Author Leslie Tall Manning has crafted a story that is not only engaging and well-written but also important in its exploration of complex social issues. It is a must-read for anyone interested in a deep, character-driven narrative that speaks to the strength of the human spirit.
This coming-of-age story starts by setting the scene in a troubled household. Maril, the older sister, is portrayed as a fiercely protective and resourceful figure who assumes the role of a guardian for her younger brother, Carol. This dynamic forms the crux of the story, as their bond is tested and strengthened through various trials. The characters are well-developed, with Maril’s strength and Carol’s innocence creating a compelling contrast that drives the narrative.
Manning’s writing shines in its ability to convey complex emotions and situations with sensitivity and clarity. The portrayal of the children’s mother is particularly nuanced, avoiding one-dimensional characterizations and instead presenting a figure who is as flawed and human as she is troubled. This gives the story a realistic feel, making the characters’ struggles all the more relatable and heart-wrenching.
One of the things I found most striking about the novel is its exploration of the theme of family. The book delves into what it means to be a family in the most challenging circumstances, highlighting not just the biological ties but the emotional and psychological bonds that hold a family together. The resilience of Maril and Carol as they navigate the foster care system and face various challenges is a testament to the strength of these bonds.
The author’s ability to blend emotional depth with a compelling narrative is one thing I enjoyed most about this book. The story flows seamlessly, with each chapter adding a new layer to the characters’ journey. The novel touches on important social issues such as the impact of parental issues on children and the challenges within the foster care system. Manning handles these topics with a deft hand, providing insight without becoming preachy. This balance is difficult to achieve, yet I feel Manning does so with ease.
Feral Maril and Her Little Brother Carol is an emotionally charged novel that leaves a lasting impression. Author Leslie Tall Manning has crafted a story that is not only engaging and well-written but also important in its exploration of complex social issues. It is a must-read for anyone interested in a deep, character-driven narrative that speaks to the strength of the human spirit.
August 10, 2025
Once again, one of my favorite authors has delivered another “must read.” Leslie Tall Manning’s latest novel, “feral Maril & her little brother Carol” is a winner on so many levels.
Starting with voice. From the opening sentence, Manning grabbed me: "The first time Mama screamed me awake was when I was three." Who says screamed me awake? I simply had to find out who this child is and her circumstances. AND where might this expression be used?
Manning delivers the answers to my questions in a rolling, messy, full-of-life story inhabited by a cast of characters that kept me intrigued, surprised, empathetic, and sometimes frustrated as this saga unfolded.
In Marilyn Jones, Manning has created one of the most unforgettable main characters I’ve ever encountered thanks to Maril's voice and POV. From three years of age to sixteen, Maril matures before our eyes into a most unforgettable, intelligent, caring young woman. Rising above her station in life thanks to some very dear secondary characters and her own amazing perseverance and hutzpah. Suffix it to say, I would be grateful to have Maril as my friend. She’s that special.
The trials and tribulations Meril navigates were challenging for sure yet very real. Manning did her homework to honestly and accurately portray scenes about child protective services, a mother’s weakness for drugs and eventual imprisonment because of it, bad players out to take advantage, and Maril safeguarding her younger brother with mental challenges, whom she loves dearly. All were poignantly portrayed with depth and compassion. And kept my fingers turning pages continuously. I just had to know what happened next!
This is a story of hard times and triumph. And one that I’ll remember. Especially Maril. Thank you Leslie Manning. This was truly a good read!
Starting with voice. From the opening sentence, Manning grabbed me: "The first time Mama screamed me awake was when I was three." Who says screamed me awake? I simply had to find out who this child is and her circumstances. AND where might this expression be used?
Manning delivers the answers to my questions in a rolling, messy, full-of-life story inhabited by a cast of characters that kept me intrigued, surprised, empathetic, and sometimes frustrated as this saga unfolded.
In Marilyn Jones, Manning has created one of the most unforgettable main characters I’ve ever encountered thanks to Maril's voice and POV. From three years of age to sixteen, Maril matures before our eyes into a most unforgettable, intelligent, caring young woman. Rising above her station in life thanks to some very dear secondary characters and her own amazing perseverance and hutzpah. Suffix it to say, I would be grateful to have Maril as my friend. She’s that special.
The trials and tribulations Meril navigates were challenging for sure yet very real. Manning did her homework to honestly and accurately portray scenes about child protective services, a mother’s weakness for drugs and eventual imprisonment because of it, bad players out to take advantage, and Maril safeguarding her younger brother with mental challenges, whom she loves dearly. All were poignantly portrayed with depth and compassion. And kept my fingers turning pages continuously. I just had to know what happened next!
This is a story of hard times and triumph. And one that I’ll remember. Especially Maril. Thank you Leslie Manning. This was truly a good read!
April 15, 2024
I have had the joy of reading all of Leslie Tall Manning’s books—all of them stand-alone, all of them delightfully different, all of them true gems.
Ms. Tall Manning’s newest creation, Feral Maril and Her Little Brother Carol, is the heart-wrenching story of Marilyn Jones and her young, challenged brother, Carol, whose family is in shambles and just can’t seem to catch a break.
Shuttled from her prison-bound mother to foster care to an ex-con father figure, Marilyn is shoved into a multitude of adult situations and decisions while still a child. Kept afloat by her hope of the Tan Man and her love for her little brother, Marilyn survives a seemingly unsurvivable childhood with grit, resourcefulness, and sheer determination.
Feral Maril and Her Little Brother Carol is a hard-to-put-down book. Once I met Maril, I felt I couldn’t abandon her until I saw her through to a safe and comfortable landing. I loved everything about this story…one of the author’s best.
Ms. Tall Manning’s newest creation, Feral Maril and Her Little Brother Carol, is the heart-wrenching story of Marilyn Jones and her young, challenged brother, Carol, whose family is in shambles and just can’t seem to catch a break.
Shuttled from her prison-bound mother to foster care to an ex-con father figure, Marilyn is shoved into a multitude of adult situations and decisions while still a child. Kept afloat by her hope of the Tan Man and her love for her little brother, Marilyn survives a seemingly unsurvivable childhood with grit, resourcefulness, and sheer determination.
Feral Maril and Her Little Brother Carol is a hard-to-put-down book. Once I met Maril, I felt I couldn’t abandon her until I saw her through to a safe and comfortable landing. I loved everything about this story…one of the author’s best.
May 7, 2024
This was a delightful book about Marilyn (aka Maril), who is the devoted and determined carer for her special needs brother, named Carolyn (aka Carol) by their drug addicted single parent.
When their mother gets into trouble, the siblings are taken into foster care and separated. Despite the opportunities and challenges she faces as a result of this, Maril never loses site of her determination to be reunited with Carol.
This is a touching story about a highly intelligent teenage protagonist, and a coming of age story done beautifully. It is best gone into without too much information, but there will be few readers who remain unmoved by Maril's love and care for her brother. The book examines issues of family dynamics, found family and the foster care system. Well worth a read.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
When their mother gets into trouble, the siblings are taken into foster care and separated. Despite the opportunities and challenges she faces as a result of this, Maril never loses site of her determination to be reunited with Carol.
This is a touching story about a highly intelligent teenage protagonist, and a coming of age story done beautifully. It is best gone into without too much information, but there will be few readers who remain unmoved by Maril's love and care for her brother. The book examines issues of family dynamics, found family and the foster care system. Well worth a read.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
June 10, 2024
"Feral Maril & Her Little Brother Carol" by Leslie Tall Manning is a delightful journey into the whimsical world of sibling adventures. Manning's storytelling prowess shines as she weaves a heartwarming tale of two siblings navigating the trials and triumphs of childhood with imagination as their compass. Maril and Carol's escapades, brimming with mischief and magic, capture the essence of youth in a way that resonates with readers of all ages. Manning's vivid prose brings the characters to life, making them feel like cherished friends accompanying readers on an unforgettable quest. With its enchanting narrative and endearing characters, "Feral Maril & Her Little Brother Carol" is a treasure trove of joy and wonder—a book that leaves a lasting imprint on the soul. Manning has crafted a masterpiece that reminds us of the beauty of innocence and the boundless possibilities of imagination.
May 27, 2024
The description of this book makes it sound a little like a quirky Hallmark movie or after-school special, but does not do it justice (which I’ve also found true of other books by Leslie). It is a story about finding both independence and family, but it’s so much more. The characters pulled me in from the first page, and I quickly became invested in seeing what happens next. Situations that could be trite or stereotyped are instead handled respectfully and make sense in the context of the story. The ending had several twists—some of which I saw coming and others of which surprised me—but ultimately brought things to a satisfying conclusion and provided a sense of hope.
May 13, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC copy of Feral Maril and Her Little Brother Carol. I loved this book! What a story of GRIT. Marilyn has to care for her baby brother from birth because of her drug addicted mother. Despite her best efforts, Marilyn is forced into the system of foster care. Feral Maril and Her Little Brother Carol is the story of all young Marilyn goes through to care for herself and brother.
July 10, 2024
Yep I enjoyed this book. Loved Maril and her love for her brother Carol. So sad that people will take advantage of children in the system and the poor children have no recourse. Just saying things need to change for our children.
July 5, 2025
Wow…the resilience of the human spirit!
What could be a very depressing book is written about in such a way that has you rooting for Maril and her brother Carol. Kudos to Mrs. Chang, one of the most stable adults in Maril’s life. Definitely a read worth your time !
What could be a very depressing book is written about in such a way that has you rooting for Maril and her brother Carol. Kudos to Mrs. Chang, one of the most stable adults in Maril’s life. Definitely a read worth your time !
November 3, 2025
The story is fast-paced, with lots of twists. The young main character, Marilyn, is a tough cookie, and her story will get you thinking about two important issues… the foster care system and services for children with special needs.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews