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Rooted: A Novel
Lovers of Southern Literature, Americana, and the 70's New York punk scene will rejoice in this masterfully penned family drama, rooted in the works of Southern storytellers such as William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, Truman Capote, Flannery O'Connor and more.
Working his lifetime to bury a shameful past and restore the family name, Grover McQuiston rules the town of Moonsock, Tennessee and his family with an iron fist. Or he did, until his eerily skittish tomboy granddaughter, Sarah Jane, scandalizes the entire town. Before Grover can force Sarah Jane to marry, blue-haired, strung-out punk Slade Mortimer crash lands in Moonsock in a stolen car, claiming to be Grover's long-lost grandson and seeking an inheritance. When Slade's presence resurrects questions regarding his mother's mysterious disappearance years before, it seems things couldn't get any worse.
Then Grover's wife, Eleanor, dies. And in those flat delta fields, Grover learns nothing, absolutely nothing stays buried forever. As the McQuistons prepare for a most unusual funeral, they must account for their past sins: Grover, whose darkest secrets are about to become unearthed. Reclusive Sarah Jane, who hides deep literary talents and deeper scars. And Slade, running from the memory of his dead girlfriend and her vengeful father, seeking the legacy he never knew he possessed--and discovering the family he never knew he needed.
Sweeping from the grime of the 70's New York City punk scene to the truck-scarred roads of rural Tennessee, this evocative, wry, and beautifully-written novel captures the grit of Southern storytelling at its finest while also launching a fresh, unique new voice.
Working his lifetime to bury a shameful past and restore the family name, Grover McQuiston rules the town of Moonsock, Tennessee and his family with an iron fist. Or he did, until his eerily skittish tomboy granddaughter, Sarah Jane, scandalizes the entire town. Before Grover can force Sarah Jane to marry, blue-haired, strung-out punk Slade Mortimer crash lands in Moonsock in a stolen car, claiming to be Grover's long-lost grandson and seeking an inheritance. When Slade's presence resurrects questions regarding his mother's mysterious disappearance years before, it seems things couldn't get any worse.
Then Grover's wife, Eleanor, dies. And in those flat delta fields, Grover learns nothing, absolutely nothing stays buried forever. As the McQuistons prepare for a most unusual funeral, they must account for their past sins: Grover, whose darkest secrets are about to become unearthed. Reclusive Sarah Jane, who hides deep literary talents and deeper scars. And Slade, running from the memory of his dead girlfriend and her vengeful father, seeking the legacy he never knew he possessed--and discovering the family he never knew he needed.
Sweeping from the grime of the 70's New York City punk scene to the truck-scarred roads of rural Tennessee, this evocative, wry, and beautifully-written novel captures the grit of Southern storytelling at its finest while also launching a fresh, unique new voice.
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 13, 2010
4 people are currently reading
896 people want to read
About the author
Idabel Allen
4 books61 followersIdabel Allen serves up the best in new home cooked Southern Literature in the tradition of Eudora Welty, Charles Portis, Willam Faulkner and Flannery O'Connor.
Idabel brings over fifteen years of experience as a professional writer and editor to the literary table. She attended the Iowa Writers' Workshop Fiction program and is the author of Headshots, Cursed! My Devastatingly Brilliant Campaign and Rooted. Idabel's books are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and independent bookstores across this fine land.
When not burrowing in the written word, Idabel is generally up to no good with her family, dogs and herd of antagonistic cows.
Idabel brings over fifteen years of experience as a professional writer and editor to the literary table. She attended the Iowa Writers' Workshop Fiction program and is the author of Headshots, Cursed! My Devastatingly Brilliant Campaign and Rooted. Idabel's books are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and independent bookstores across this fine land.
When not burrowing in the written word, Idabel is generally up to no good with her family, dogs and herd of antagonistic cows.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 20, 2017
3.5 rounded up to 4 for the controversial Southern spirit mixed with New York language
This book was really something different! I got into it fairly quickly and was surprised by the pace and style drawing me in, despite the unnatural melange of characters, happenings, family ties refinding their purpose and connections. The mix and match of language and story is unforgettable, pretty original to say the least.
My favorite character who underwent a significant rebirth or development is Grover. I had a feeling from the beginning that he was the guy who would clear things up eventually, yet he took even more responsibility than I would have imagined. I also liked Miss Josie's warmth and understanding about human nature and real life. I was somehow so grateful for the goodness she helped spreading towards Sarah Jane and Slade.
The book is sprinkled every few pages or so with old wisdom phrases and aims to teach about the hardships of life, taking ownership of one's actions and how they could affect other people. Family is the center of it all, the idea that without family one is nothing.
All in all, this book has it all, and the Southern lifestyle seems to be the base and the heart of the plot. I recommend you give it a try and check for yourself if this novel suits you. It has a way too colorful mix of events and moods to be straight to the point and it is not that easy to classify.
Thanks so much to Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book was really something different! I got into it fairly quickly and was surprised by the pace and style drawing me in, despite the unnatural melange of characters, happenings, family ties refinding their purpose and connections. The mix and match of language and story is unforgettable, pretty original to say the least.
My favorite character who underwent a significant rebirth or development is Grover. I had a feeling from the beginning that he was the guy who would clear things up eventually, yet he took even more responsibility than I would have imagined. I also liked Miss Josie's warmth and understanding about human nature and real life. I was somehow so grateful for the goodness she helped spreading towards Sarah Jane and Slade.
The book is sprinkled every few pages or so with old wisdom phrases and aims to teach about the hardships of life, taking ownership of one's actions and how they could affect other people. Family is the center of it all, the idea that without family one is nothing.
All in all, this book has it all, and the Southern lifestyle seems to be the base and the heart of the plot. I recommend you give it a try and check for yourself if this novel suits you. It has a way too colorful mix of events and moods to be straight to the point and it is not that easy to classify.
Thanks so much to Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2018
Synopsis
This is a story of pain, mistakes, secrets, and regrets. We get to see how the choices of the past shape the McQuiston family and follow them on their journey to healing and forgiveness.
Summary
I liked it but in a cheesy sort of way. I was prepared for Rooted to be more serious, but it isn’t. The type of cheese in this book is something you will either like, or it will annoy the hell out of you.
The Real Review
I had to change the way I normally read for this one. When I realized this book wasn’t meant to be taken as seriously as I thought, I enjoyed it a lot more.
When I think of describing this book the first word that comes to mind is cheesy. Now, cheesy doesn’t necessarily mean bad to me. It has its charms and some issues I can’t ignore. And I know this book isn’t really that good, but I like it anyway.
I’ll start out with what was good about Rooted.
The writing has potential. There were some really good lines and nuggets of knowledge. I like Idabel Allen’s style because it is clear. It’s not frilly and fluffy.
It has a believable family history and cast of characters. The characters in Rooted have a lot of problems. Everyone is a hot mess, except the two elderly grannies that help out the household. Even though everyone was a hot mess and they were even annoying at times, they were believable and interesting enough for me to finish the book.
It’s an entertaining story with a good twist/reveal at the end. The twist may be predictable for some people, but regardless, I think it really ties everything together and bumps the plot up a level.
Now for what I don’t like.
The writing makes me go, “Ummm…okay?”, For example, we have characters saying things like:
“F*cking f*ggoty f*gs”
“vagitarian”
And my favorites
“Auuuughghghg!”
And
“Auwaughhhhhh…”
Seriously, how do I pronounce those?
It is kind of funny seeing things like that alongside some beautifully written passages.
The characters aren't memorable.. I don’t hate any of them, but I don’t love any of them either. I wouldn’t exactly call them one-sided, but they all had their one cliche they fell back on.
For example, we had the mean old man, the angelic old lady, the quiet girl, the punk rebel, and the drag queen.
Another negative thing about the characters is that they are constantly throwing pity parties. But you know, I can’t really gripe about that too much, because that’s kind of true to real life. And besides, I think the characters in this book had some reasons to be down.
There are no breaks in this book. We’re always heading from one disaster to another. And if there isn’t a tragedy coming their way a character is always ready to stir something up.
Anyway, that’s all I have to say for Rooted. It’s good, but not amazing. At least, I liked it enough to read more by Idabel Allen.
This is a story of pain, mistakes, secrets, and regrets. We get to see how the choices of the past shape the McQuiston family and follow them on their journey to healing and forgiveness.
Summary
I liked it but in a cheesy sort of way. I was prepared for Rooted to be more serious, but it isn’t. The type of cheese in this book is something you will either like, or it will annoy the hell out of you.
The Real Review
I had to change the way I normally read for this one. When I realized this book wasn’t meant to be taken as seriously as I thought, I enjoyed it a lot more.
When I think of describing this book the first word that comes to mind is cheesy. Now, cheesy doesn’t necessarily mean bad to me. It has its charms and some issues I can’t ignore. And I know this book isn’t really that good, but I like it anyway.
I’ll start out with what was good about Rooted.
The writing has potential. There were some really good lines and nuggets of knowledge. I like Idabel Allen’s style because it is clear. It’s not frilly and fluffy.
It has a believable family history and cast of characters. The characters in Rooted have a lot of problems. Everyone is a hot mess, except the two elderly grannies that help out the household. Even though everyone was a hot mess and they were even annoying at times, they were believable and interesting enough for me to finish the book.
It’s an entertaining story with a good twist/reveal at the end. The twist may be predictable for some people, but regardless, I think it really ties everything together and bumps the plot up a level.
Now for what I don’t like.
The writing makes me go, “Ummm…okay?”, For example, we have characters saying things like:
“F*cking f*ggoty f*gs”
“vagitarian”
And my favorites
“Auuuughghghg!”
And
“Auwaughhhhhh…”
Seriously, how do I pronounce those?
It is kind of funny seeing things like that alongside some beautifully written passages.
The characters aren't memorable.. I don’t hate any of them, but I don’t love any of them either. I wouldn’t exactly call them one-sided, but they all had their one cliche they fell back on.
For example, we had the mean old man, the angelic old lady, the quiet girl, the punk rebel, and the drag queen.
Another negative thing about the characters is that they are constantly throwing pity parties. But you know, I can’t really gripe about that too much, because that’s kind of true to real life. And besides, I think the characters in this book had some reasons to be down.
There are no breaks in this book. We’re always heading from one disaster to another. And if there isn’t a tragedy coming their way a character is always ready to stir something up.
Anyway, that’s all I have to say for Rooted. It’s good, but not amazing. At least, I liked it enough to read more by Idabel Allen.
October 8, 2017
Idabel Allen's writing makes this a fun read! If you like quirky characters and books about family, including member's absences and the messed up lives they sometimes end up leading, this book is for you. It's the story of a family who is too caught up in what they are into individually to realize that they need each other. All of that changes with a death (or two) in the family. People come home, tough love is meted out, and in the end they appreciate what they have, bending and growing in the process.
I really liked learning about the characters and what made them into the people they were. Their behaviors are erratic and you may know characters like this. Deep down we may all want the same thing. There are some really crazy times that put me in mind of early drinking experiences and being a different sort of kid, which maybe most of us think we were. There is some sad, heavy subject matter and some lighthearted fun, too. All in all, I found it quite enjoyable.
If you don't like reading about religion, drugs and alcohol, or to read colorful language, you may want to avoid this one. They are all there, but actually with a satisfying ending, if you'll put your feelings aside and wait for it. (I received this book in a goodreads giveaway.)
I really liked learning about the characters and what made them into the people they were. Their behaviors are erratic and you may know characters like this. Deep down we may all want the same thing. There are some really crazy times that put me in mind of early drinking experiences and being a different sort of kid, which maybe most of us think we were. There is some sad, heavy subject matter and some lighthearted fun, too. All in all, I found it quite enjoyable.
If you don't like reading about religion, drugs and alcohol, or to read colorful language, you may want to avoid this one. They are all there, but actually with a satisfying ending, if you'll put your feelings aside and wait for it. (I received this book in a goodreads giveaway.)
May 2, 2017
As a Southern lit reader, I LOVED this combo of punk and Southern fiction. Idabel Allen has an amazing handle on voice and character development - and who doesn't love a cow with blue hair on the front cover? Definitely a great read for anyone who likes Southern lit that's a little edgy!
May 2, 2017
What a fun, quirky book! I so enjoyed the characters developed in the story, and the entire story is unique and off-the-wall in the best possible way! I highly recommend it—especially if you want to infuse your reading with something a little different!
May 2, 2017
Idabel Allen is an exquisite writer, and I'm so thrilled that "Rooted" landed on my radar. This book has everything I really enjoy -- quick pacing, incredible storytelling and colorful characters. Can't wait to read more from her!
October 22, 2017
4.5 stars! I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. It came signed by the author, and included a personal note. It was a very nice addition to the already amazing book.
This is the first time in a long time that I've enjoyed a story just for the sake of the story. It seems like the only books being published today are the Gone Girl-style of mysteries with unreliable narrators. This book is just a good story. Period. It's told from an omniscient point of view, so that no single character is providing the perspectives. Each character's thoughts and feelings are reflected. While there are a copy of shocking revelations that I did not predict, this book isn't designed to make you guess what's about to happen and what twist is coming in the end. It's just a simple story of a family that takes place over the course of a couple days in Tennessee. I don't want to get too deeply into the plot, as it will take away from the book. I went in only knowing it was about a family in Tennessee, with one family member coming from New York. I was very thankful I had no other details so that I could experience the writing without knowing what was coming or waiting for details in the plot to transpire.
This is a book that deserves to be read and shared. I highly recommend.
This is the first time in a long time that I've enjoyed a story just for the sake of the story. It seems like the only books being published today are the Gone Girl-style of mysteries with unreliable narrators. This book is just a good story. Period. It's told from an omniscient point of view, so that no single character is providing the perspectives. Each character's thoughts and feelings are reflected. While there are a copy of shocking revelations that I did not predict, this book isn't designed to make you guess what's about to happen and what twist is coming in the end. It's just a simple story of a family that takes place over the course of a couple days in Tennessee. I don't want to get too deeply into the plot, as it will take away from the book. I went in only knowing it was about a family in Tennessee, with one family member coming from New York. I was very thankful I had no other details so that I could experience the writing without knowing what was coming or waiting for details in the plot to transpire.
This is a book that deserves to be read and shared. I highly recommend.
February 18, 2018
Are you ready for a modern-day Kentucky Greek Tragedy? If so, you won’t be disappointed. I will put up a disclaimer, if you’re easily offended by strong language, you won’t like this. Why? Because the story mixes in hard Southern gentile ways with the harsh environment of the New York punk scene. With that said, here’s the plot.
Eleanor McQuiston wanted only one thing her whole life, her family to be together. She took in her abandoned granddaughter, Sarah Jane when her mom abandoned her. Her father was killed in Korea and her mom never could get her life together.
Eleanor’s husband, Grover is not a fan of her living there. She does nothing but daydream and while away her hours at an old fishing shack. When he hears talk about town that she’s a lesbian, that’s the final straw. Time she earned her keep and gets married and out of his hair. But wait, while he’s pondering the dilemma at the bank, a car comes barrelling through the town’s square going God knows where. Grover and the Sheriff will deal with that problem later. But later comes quicker than he’d like for he’s about to find out, it’s his grandson!
That’s where I gotta stop without giving away too much of the plot. Well, let me throw one more caveat in, Eleanor dies the day her unknown grandson shows up. Her death will achieve what she always wanted and reveal secrets that have remained buried for decades. And one of them will rock you when it comes to fruition.
Idabel does an excellent job of introducing faith and God, in what seems a hopeless situation for many. And does it without being preachy. It’s a pleasant undertone for all the lost souls looking for that final redemption and hope.
Thoroughly enjoyed this well-crafted tale.
Five stars
Eleanor McQuiston wanted only one thing her whole life, her family to be together. She took in her abandoned granddaughter, Sarah Jane when her mom abandoned her. Her father was killed in Korea and her mom never could get her life together.
Eleanor’s husband, Grover is not a fan of her living there. She does nothing but daydream and while away her hours at an old fishing shack. When he hears talk about town that she’s a lesbian, that’s the final straw. Time she earned her keep and gets married and out of his hair. But wait, while he’s pondering the dilemma at the bank, a car comes barrelling through the town’s square going God knows where. Grover and the Sheriff will deal with that problem later. But later comes quicker than he’d like for he’s about to find out, it’s his grandson!
That’s where I gotta stop without giving away too much of the plot. Well, let me throw one more caveat in, Eleanor dies the day her unknown grandson shows up. Her death will achieve what she always wanted and reveal secrets that have remained buried for decades. And one of them will rock you when it comes to fruition.
Idabel does an excellent job of introducing faith and God, in what seems a hopeless situation for many. And does it without being preachy. It’s a pleasant undertone for all the lost souls looking for that final redemption and hope.
Thoroughly enjoyed this well-crafted tale.
Five stars
November 5, 2017
This is a reviewed copy from the author.
Many have heard of the term “nuclear family.” Without reference to the Hermit Kingdom, it is generally known that collections of nuclear stuff can achieve critical mass with explosive results. Material scatters everywhere. That is what happened in Idabel Allen’s novel Rooted. Readers did not witness this explosion; we will join the decimated family as a group with its fewest members in the beginning chapter of the novel. After the explosion, after a few years, the same scattered material may begin to coalesce. Allen will relate the painful process and problems with this “coming together.” As Allen points out “It all comes from the root. And Grover McQuiston was the root of it all.” (loc56-57).
Grover is an unlovable guy. He is the irascible grandfather, always right, never wrong, and a character who offers an implied threat of physical activity in the event of non-compliance with his desires. He is powerful, a self-made man, and President of the local bank. Eleanor is the long-suffering wife. Readers see immediately that she is resigned to stuff. She will almost always eventually give in to Grover and even support his every decision. “Almost” because when she finds an issue important to her, we have a feeling that she will dig in and assert herself. Although she sounds like a strong anchor that can act as a balance to the naked confrontation style of Grover, don’t get used to her. She will not stay around long although her influence will be of major importance to all characters in this strong character driven novel.
Grover lives in a home that he built on land that his family owned and occasionally lost for generations. He sees himself as a noble creature, sacrificing his life to rebuild a reputation and financial security from a past tainted by rumor and intolerance. He lives in a home with wife Eleanor and granddaughter Sarah Jane, a relative he does not openly acknowledge. Sarah Jane is the daughter of his dead son, Jacob, and a woman Grover never knew or approved of. There is also his unwelcome aunt Althea and a close friend of Eleanor’s, Josie. This friend doesn’t always live there but Grover thinks she is at the house so much it appears she does, another unwelcome presence. Along with Lucy, the family cow, this is the nuclear family we meet.
And then someone kills Lucy by driving a car into the cow. This is where the family starts the process of reforming. Not all parts/characters come willingly. They have existed for years in other parts of a universe and have their own lives. Coming home to Moonsock will require adjustment and negotiation from all. Moonsock, Tennessee has a well-chosen town name that leaves us not surprised to learn it is small; everyone knows everyone else’s backstory, newly appearing visitors with strange ways are not welcome. Slade was the definition of strange. Other than his magnificent entrance to the story, made by crashing a car into Lucy resulting in injuries sufficient to justify bovine execution; his blue spiked hair, earrings, and repeated attempts to vomit on exiting the wrecked car assured instant non-acceptance by the local population. But Eleanor liked him. She recognized him as the son of her daughter Ellie who had run off with Grover’s best friend Mortimer several years previously. Ellie had disappeared, never to be seen or heard of. After running away with Mortimer, she ran away from Mortimer, abandoning Slade to a life with Mortimer who took his fatherly duties seriously and taught Slade how to be a mortician. When not embalming someone, Slade self-studied music and, abandoning Mortimer, formed a Goth style band called the Roaming Morticians (of course). But Mortimer was dying and just prior to his death sent a letter to Slade indicating Slade had an inheritance if he went home to claim it. The gathering begins.
Readers will be able to appreciate small town, insular, redneck life through the colorful vocabulary Allen allows her characters. I could imagine and assign accents as I read dialogues. Out of all the possible lines that are memorable, I just want to report this one. It is extremely minimal and expresses many different things; despair, sadness, nostalgia, wonder, and amazement. The expression is only used by one character, Sarah Jane, but it is used in many contexts. I stopped to reflect every time Sarah Jane said “Oh boy.”
I will give this a five-star Amazon rating and I have already purchased Headshots available through KU for free or for purchase at USD 0.99. Rooted is not available through KU and sells for USD 3.99. It is worth the price. At the end of Rooted, there is a preview of Cursed: My Devastatingly Brilliant Campaign to Save the Chigg. The preview presents a fascinating YA novel centering on eighth-grade experiences. Scheduled for a November 2017 publication, I can’t find it on Amazon. The author’s webpage does not provide a way to get the book; it does announce a Fall 2017 release date. I will not give up the search. Allen is a very entertaining storyteller.
Many have heard of the term “nuclear family.” Without reference to the Hermit Kingdom, it is generally known that collections of nuclear stuff can achieve critical mass with explosive results. Material scatters everywhere. That is what happened in Idabel Allen’s novel Rooted. Readers did not witness this explosion; we will join the decimated family as a group with its fewest members in the beginning chapter of the novel. After the explosion, after a few years, the same scattered material may begin to coalesce. Allen will relate the painful process and problems with this “coming together.” As Allen points out “It all comes from the root. And Grover McQuiston was the root of it all.” (loc56-57).
Grover is an unlovable guy. He is the irascible grandfather, always right, never wrong, and a character who offers an implied threat of physical activity in the event of non-compliance with his desires. He is powerful, a self-made man, and President of the local bank. Eleanor is the long-suffering wife. Readers see immediately that she is resigned to stuff. She will almost always eventually give in to Grover and even support his every decision. “Almost” because when she finds an issue important to her, we have a feeling that she will dig in and assert herself. Although she sounds like a strong anchor that can act as a balance to the naked confrontation style of Grover, don’t get used to her. She will not stay around long although her influence will be of major importance to all characters in this strong character driven novel.
Grover lives in a home that he built on land that his family owned and occasionally lost for generations. He sees himself as a noble creature, sacrificing his life to rebuild a reputation and financial security from a past tainted by rumor and intolerance. He lives in a home with wife Eleanor and granddaughter Sarah Jane, a relative he does not openly acknowledge. Sarah Jane is the daughter of his dead son, Jacob, and a woman Grover never knew or approved of. There is also his unwelcome aunt Althea and a close friend of Eleanor’s, Josie. This friend doesn’t always live there but Grover thinks she is at the house so much it appears she does, another unwelcome presence. Along with Lucy, the family cow, this is the nuclear family we meet.
And then someone kills Lucy by driving a car into the cow. This is where the family starts the process of reforming. Not all parts/characters come willingly. They have existed for years in other parts of a universe and have their own lives. Coming home to Moonsock will require adjustment and negotiation from all. Moonsock, Tennessee has a well-chosen town name that leaves us not surprised to learn it is small; everyone knows everyone else’s backstory, newly appearing visitors with strange ways are not welcome. Slade was the definition of strange. Other than his magnificent entrance to the story, made by crashing a car into Lucy resulting in injuries sufficient to justify bovine execution; his blue spiked hair, earrings, and repeated attempts to vomit on exiting the wrecked car assured instant non-acceptance by the local population. But Eleanor liked him. She recognized him as the son of her daughter Ellie who had run off with Grover’s best friend Mortimer several years previously. Ellie had disappeared, never to be seen or heard of. After running away with Mortimer, she ran away from Mortimer, abandoning Slade to a life with Mortimer who took his fatherly duties seriously and taught Slade how to be a mortician. When not embalming someone, Slade self-studied music and, abandoning Mortimer, formed a Goth style band called the Roaming Morticians (of course). But Mortimer was dying and just prior to his death sent a letter to Slade indicating Slade had an inheritance if he went home to claim it. The gathering begins.
Readers will be able to appreciate small town, insular, redneck life through the colorful vocabulary Allen allows her characters. I could imagine and assign accents as I read dialogues. Out of all the possible lines that are memorable, I just want to report this one. It is extremely minimal and expresses many different things; despair, sadness, nostalgia, wonder, and amazement. The expression is only used by one character, Sarah Jane, but it is used in many contexts. I stopped to reflect every time Sarah Jane said “Oh boy.”
I will give this a five-star Amazon rating and I have already purchased Headshots available through KU for free or for purchase at USD 0.99. Rooted is not available through KU and sells for USD 3.99. It is worth the price. At the end of Rooted, there is a preview of Cursed: My Devastatingly Brilliant Campaign to Save the Chigg. The preview presents a fascinating YA novel centering on eighth-grade experiences. Scheduled for a November 2017 publication, I can’t find it on Amazon. The author’s webpage does not provide a way to get the book; it does announce a Fall 2017 release date. I will not give up the search. Allen is a very entertaining storyteller.
June 17, 2017
Rooted
By: Idabel Allen
Genre: Fiction
“It all comes from the root. And Grover McQuiston was the root of it all.”
My mother always says, “your roots give you wings.” While that may be true, for me, the roots in this story serve another purpose altogether. The shared roots of the McQuiston family give them a communal tap on crazy.
Grover McQuiston, Allen’s main character, IS the root of his family. He’s the root of their problems; the root of their secrets; the root of their hatred and the root of their neuroses. And, for 99% of the book, he’s the root of all evil.
There are some things I really liked about this book:
The author, Idabel Allen—in very few pages—drew the character of McQuiston with no ambiguity. I knew who he was and what he was immediately. I’ve known men just like him, in my life. Strong, large and in charge; meaner than a s***house rat and, just a little bit crazy. Respected because he’s feared. Feared because he’s earned it.
The author brought McQuiston to life for me. The same could be said of all the characters. There was little flourish needed or offered. Her characters are tangible and relatable. Weird. But, real.
Allen’s imagery is also well written. She drew a picture of a family farm that lived and breathed for me. I pictured the white farmhouse with the sprawling farm lands behind and I could smell the manure and hear the women laugh as they snapped peas on the porch. I felt the breeze that moved the corn around on its stalks. This brought home to me some very real and enjoyable emotions and memories. In this, she did a great job.
There were other things about this story I did not like:
Characters and story-lines were introduced…awkwardly. It’s hard to give examples without spoilers. But, let me try:
One character has been missing from the main story for decades. DECADES. Yet, just happens to show up, out-of-the-blue (like a couple of others) to bring to a head some family drama and spill some secrets (just like some of the others and all in the same 12-hour period). PERHAPS, with a little more build up (WHY NOW?) it might not have been so…jarring. I don’t know. As it happened, it was as if a magician pulled her out of a hat. It was unbelievable and… awkward.
Now that I think about it, the same could be said for ALL the characters introduced into the story after those who lived on the farm.
Once things got rolling, it was like a boulder rolling down a hill crushing everything in its path. Don’t get me wrong. I understand the concept of building tension and then resolving issues. However, there was very little actual build-up of tension. Everything before the resolution was a little too…ambiguous(?)…too bland.
Think of a roller coaster with no apparent upswings, no hills to climb, no rises. You’re just riding around—for a very short time—on the flat boring coaster tracks watching the scenery and then, all-of-a-sudden there’s a cliff you weren’t expecting. The drop-off lasts for just a few heartbeats, if that, and then it’s over and you’re rolling back into the station wondering, “what the heck just happened?”.
Five, maybe six different secrets/issues/problems/challenges between as many as seven to eight different relationships were faced, defeated and lives were changed in just a chapter or so. While I sometimes enjoy succinct writing…this was a little too laconic. Slam-bam, Thank You ma’am. Too much. Too quick. Too short. I felt like I’d been gang raped by a bunch of leprechauns and then left to clean up before church.
Look, I’m not trying to be crude or cruel. The story has good bones. I think, had the author focused on just one issue—there were plenty to choose from—and built her story around that ONE family secret, it could have been amazing. As it was, the story was all over the place. It was unfocused and unrefined. It was roller-coaster jarring without the excitement and thrills. Instead, it was just kind of painful and boring.
That said, the author has talent. See Above^. She needs focus and restraint, patience and a little bit of experience with roller coasters and she'll be great.
By: Idabel Allen
Genre: Fiction
“It all comes from the root. And Grover McQuiston was the root of it all.”
My mother always says, “your roots give you wings.” While that may be true, for me, the roots in this story serve another purpose altogether. The shared roots of the McQuiston family give them a communal tap on crazy.
Grover McQuiston, Allen’s main character, IS the root of his family. He’s the root of their problems; the root of their secrets; the root of their hatred and the root of their neuroses. And, for 99% of the book, he’s the root of all evil.
There are some things I really liked about this book:
The author, Idabel Allen—in very few pages—drew the character of McQuiston with no ambiguity. I knew who he was and what he was immediately. I’ve known men just like him, in my life. Strong, large and in charge; meaner than a s***house rat and, just a little bit crazy. Respected because he’s feared. Feared because he’s earned it.
The author brought McQuiston to life for me. The same could be said of all the characters. There was little flourish needed or offered. Her characters are tangible and relatable. Weird. But, real.
Allen’s imagery is also well written. She drew a picture of a family farm that lived and breathed for me. I pictured the white farmhouse with the sprawling farm lands behind and I could smell the manure and hear the women laugh as they snapped peas on the porch. I felt the breeze that moved the corn around on its stalks. This brought home to me some very real and enjoyable emotions and memories. In this, she did a great job.
There were other things about this story I did not like:
Characters and story-lines were introduced…awkwardly. It’s hard to give examples without spoilers. But, let me try:
One character has been missing from the main story for decades. DECADES. Yet, just happens to show up, out-of-the-blue (like a couple of others) to bring to a head some family drama and spill some secrets (just like some of the others and all in the same 12-hour period). PERHAPS, with a little more build up (WHY NOW?) it might not have been so…jarring. I don’t know. As it happened, it was as if a magician pulled her out of a hat. It was unbelievable and… awkward.
Now that I think about it, the same could be said for ALL the characters introduced into the story after those who lived on the farm.
Once things got rolling, it was like a boulder rolling down a hill crushing everything in its path. Don’t get me wrong. I understand the concept of building tension and then resolving issues. However, there was very little actual build-up of tension. Everything before the resolution was a little too…ambiguous(?)…too bland.
Think of a roller coaster with no apparent upswings, no hills to climb, no rises. You’re just riding around—for a very short time—on the flat boring coaster tracks watching the scenery and then, all-of-a-sudden there’s a cliff you weren’t expecting. The drop-off lasts for just a few heartbeats, if that, and then it’s over and you’re rolling back into the station wondering, “what the heck just happened?”.
Five, maybe six different secrets/issues/problems/challenges between as many as seven to eight different relationships were faced, defeated and lives were changed in just a chapter or so. While I sometimes enjoy succinct writing…this was a little too laconic. Slam-bam, Thank You ma’am. Too much. Too quick. Too short. I felt like I’d been gang raped by a bunch of leprechauns and then left to clean up before church.
Look, I’m not trying to be crude or cruel. The story has good bones. I think, had the author focused on just one issue—there were plenty to choose from—and built her story around that ONE family secret, it could have been amazing. As it was, the story was all over the place. It was unfocused and unrefined. It was roller-coaster jarring without the excitement and thrills. Instead, it was just kind of painful and boring.
That said, the author has talent. See Above^. She needs focus and restraint, patience and a little bit of experience with roller coasters and she'll be great.
December 28, 2017
I was chosen to read this book from a Goodreads drawing.
I do enjoy Southern literature and this book did not disappoint. Ms. Allen is a great writer and story teller. The detail to character development and description of the stories surroundings draws the reader in immediately. There is humor in this book even though the subject matter is quite serious. The book tells a story about a family and its members who have to overcome challenges that life has thrown their way. I am glad I had the opportunity to read this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about family life in the rural south.
I do enjoy Southern literature and this book did not disappoint. Ms. Allen is a great writer and story teller. The detail to character development and description of the stories surroundings draws the reader in immediately. There is humor in this book even though the subject matter is quite serious. The book tells a story about a family and its members who have to overcome challenges that life has thrown their way. I am glad I had the opportunity to read this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about family life in the rural south.
August 19, 2017
Rooted is one of the most intriguing novels I have ever read; a real page turner! I found the plot intriguing. Idabel Allen writes with vivid descriptions and great dialogue. She skillfully introduces new characters throughout the book, as the family's history unfolds. As the author of Your Body Book Guide to Better Body Motion with Less Pain, it was an honor to be asked by Idabel Allen to review her novel.
July 6, 2017
A fun, quirky little read. Moonsock is a small, slow moving town and punk rocker Slade comes barreling into town and into the lives of Grover and Eleanor. What follows is a family novel for people who aren't afraid of a few cuss words.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 15, 2017
Washed up and strung out 70's punk rocker, Slade Mortimer crashlands in the Southern town of Moonsock, resurrecting long-buried secrets iron-fisted patriarch, Grover McQuiston is determined to keep buried.
March 25, 2017
This is a bit of a family reunion you don't want to miss.
Though head of the family Grover isn't even admitting half the people are his family.
Going from seedy punk new York,(and bringing a bit of it with them ) to the not so quiet country down south,there's a lot going on in this book.
There are constantly revelations about who did what and why.
Enjoyable,slightly mad,sometimes touching,with lots of family history,it's exactly what you expect a get together with relatives to be.
Though head of the family Grover isn't even admitting half the people are his family.
Going from seedy punk new York,(and bringing a bit of it with them ) to the not so quiet country down south,there's a lot going on in this book.
There are constantly revelations about who did what and why.
Enjoyable,slightly mad,sometimes touching,with lots of family history,it's exactly what you expect a get together with relatives to be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2017
A fantastic first novel. Idabel Allen invites readers from everywhere into her little corner of the South. "Moonsock" (general small town West Tennessee) is a place where a punk rocker isn't exactly going to fit in. But Allen's fiction shows us how Southern ways and punk rock can figure out a way to meet in the middle. This isn't your normal Southern roots novel, and the quirkiness of Allen's characters and their ways shines brightly against the backdrops of the oh-too-dainty genteel lit you might find on the shelves of local readers.
A fun read for Southerners, music fans, and anyone that dreamed of getting a mohawk but chickened out.
A fun read for Southerners, music fans, and anyone that dreamed of getting a mohawk but chickened out.
July 5, 2017
By Jim Gleason, author and book reviewer (Voluntarily reviewed book for author)
Let me begin by admitting two things. 1st: I don’t typically write reviews for books outside my reviewing focus on books about organ transplants. 2nd, I was ready to put this book down after the first few chapters due to its frequent use of foul language. I’m glad I didn’t stop there as this turned out to be a very special read and that language was redeeming in its use by the lead character that gave us a good image of his sad situation and eventual turnabout by story’s end.
This is a powerful story about the importance of family roots and perseverance in loving family with faith in their inherent goodness despite outward first appearances. The character development is both strong and visual, making the outcome by book’s final chapter almost a surprise ending. Don’t we all wish our own family could be so persistent in its loving support and faithful to its multi generational roots, despite our human failings?
This author is a good storyteller, with her strong unique character personalities that come off the page as explosive interactions carry the reader along the raging and winding river-like rough waters found in many family histories. We rebel at the outrageous actions of each family member, eventually coming into calmer waters as conflicts resolve in this engaging Southern family narrative.
I found this to be a great summertime read and recommend it to anyone looking for some unique new approach to today’s all too common narratives. But beware, you have to endure some all too realistic language and lastly, unless you apply some strong self-discipline, you may find, as I did, this to be a too quick read with some late night hours when you can’t put the book down. But isn’t that the best sign for a good book, one that ends too quickly? Enjoy Idabel’s fun filled story-telling as you relax from your own family challenges, coming away with hope for positive outcomes over time that heals.
Let me begin by admitting two things. 1st: I don’t typically write reviews for books outside my reviewing focus on books about organ transplants. 2nd, I was ready to put this book down after the first few chapters due to its frequent use of foul language. I’m glad I didn’t stop there as this turned out to be a very special read and that language was redeeming in its use by the lead character that gave us a good image of his sad situation and eventual turnabout by story’s end.
This is a powerful story about the importance of family roots and perseverance in loving family with faith in their inherent goodness despite outward first appearances. The character development is both strong and visual, making the outcome by book’s final chapter almost a surprise ending. Don’t we all wish our own family could be so persistent in its loving support and faithful to its multi generational roots, despite our human failings?
This author is a good storyteller, with her strong unique character personalities that come off the page as explosive interactions carry the reader along the raging and winding river-like rough waters found in many family histories. We rebel at the outrageous actions of each family member, eventually coming into calmer waters as conflicts resolve in this engaging Southern family narrative.
I found this to be a great summertime read and recommend it to anyone looking for some unique new approach to today’s all too common narratives. But beware, you have to endure some all too realistic language and lastly, unless you apply some strong self-discipline, you may find, as I did, this to be a too quick read with some late night hours when you can’t put the book down. But isn’t that the best sign for a good book, one that ends too quickly? Enjoy Idabel’s fun filled story-telling as you relax from your own family challenges, coming away with hope for positive outcomes over time that heals.
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