An Eighth of August

by Dawn Turner Trice

From the author of the highly acclaimed Only Twice I’ve Wished for Heaven , a new novel about the strong ties and haunting memories that bind family and friends in a small town.
Narrated by a chorus of voices, An Eighth of August tells the story of a Midwestern community that celebrates the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation year after year. Celebrants from come near and far to pay tribute to the rich heritage of the former slaves who settled the Illinois town. But along with the festivities come painful memories and long-buried resentments, and while this year’s celebration is no different, it will offer up its own particular brand of freedom to one extended family and the wonderfully eccentric white woman whose life becomes entwined with their own. Wavering between the devastating and the uplifting, An Eighth of August is ultimately an enduring and exuberant novel.

305 pages, Paperback

First published October 17, 2000

Reviews

[Larisse L.]

Maybe I just didnt give it a chance. but it didnt keep my attention. So ti stopped reading it.

[La'Cher Eustache · Rating 5 out of 5]

My goodness, a family has such deep history with deep roots. I followed the narration amazingly and the book didn't skip a beat! Page turner, for sure. Kinda sad, I shed a couple tears. But also spent a good amount of time belly laughing...just like family!

[Naomi · Rating 1 out of 5]

Boring. Too many characters. Struggled to get through this.

[Shana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was magically written! I love the flashbacks and the story being told from different perspectives!

[Lydia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting take on the celebration of the Emancipation Proclamation. Ms. Trice used a setting that draws the reader into the story, a small town that is enough of the south without being southern and enough of how free salves made it on their own. The story covers African American traditions, food, and family connections in a way I've not read before. This novel combines historical facts with oral history and knowledge of how generations live, learn and solve problems together. An excellent read - I've found a new black author that is eloquent and entertaining.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It is rich and dramatic. It unravels the tangle of a community in a clear, sympathetic, but unapologetic way.

[Mellanie C]

I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/13118992