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Aunt Sookie & Me: The Sordid Tale of a Scandalous Southern Belle
From the best-selling author of A Faithful Son
comes Aunt Sookie & Me
"Folks don’t like mess in a tidy town,” declares young Miss Poppy
Wainwright in this rollicking romp of a ride.
In Michael Scott Garvin’s Aunt Sookie & Me, he takes us on an
unforgettable journey through Savannah in the turbulent year of
1968.
Both hilarious and heartbreaking, this Southern Gothic classic
introduces us to the irrepressible Poppy and her cantankerous
ancient Aunt Sookie. All political correctness is buried alongside
the dead corpse in the family vegetable garden in the riotous book.
Garvin’s follow-up to his award-winning, best seller, A Faithful Son,
does not disappoint. The zany cast of characters in this homegrown
treat includes the proper socialites of Savannah’s upper crust, a
flamboyant ice cream man, and an ornery goat. But don’t let the
folksy and fresh recipe fool you, Garvin serves up a big helping of
reality, cutting through small-town bigotry and bias.
Through the enlightened eyes of a thirteen-year-old girl, the
hilarity and insanity ensues.
Garvin may have earned his entry through the Pearly Gates with
his graceful debut, A Faithful Son, but his ticket into heaven may be
revoked with the irreverent and side-splitting Aunt Sookie and Me.
-TrendingNovels.com
comes Aunt Sookie & Me
"Folks don’t like mess in a tidy town,” declares young Miss Poppy
Wainwright in this rollicking romp of a ride.
In Michael Scott Garvin’s Aunt Sookie & Me, he takes us on an
unforgettable journey through Savannah in the turbulent year of
1968.
Both hilarious and heartbreaking, this Southern Gothic classic
introduces us to the irrepressible Poppy and her cantankerous
ancient Aunt Sookie. All political correctness is buried alongside
the dead corpse in the family vegetable garden in the riotous book.
Garvin’s follow-up to his award-winning, best seller, A Faithful Son,
does not disappoint. The zany cast of characters in this homegrown
treat includes the proper socialites of Savannah’s upper crust, a
flamboyant ice cream man, and an ornery goat. But don’t let the
folksy and fresh recipe fool you, Garvin serves up a big helping of
reality, cutting through small-town bigotry and bias.
Through the enlightened eyes of a thirteen-year-old girl, the
hilarity and insanity ensues.
Garvin may have earned his entry through the Pearly Gates with
his graceful debut, A Faithful Son, but his ticket into heaven may be
revoked with the irreverent and side-splitting Aunt Sookie and Me.
-TrendingNovels.com
352 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2017
596 people are currently reading
2224 people want to read
About the author
Michael Scott Garvin
3 books180 followersMichael Scott Garvin is an award winning custom home builder, interior designer & author. His design firm Michael Scott Garvin Studio has designed and built custom homes throughout the Southwest.
A Faithful Son is Garvin's debut novel.
His second novel "Aunt Sookie & Me" was released July 2017
A Faithful Son is Garvin's debut novel.
His second novel "Aunt Sookie & Me" was released July 2017
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
July 10, 2018
I received a copy of this novel through a giveaway. I instantly fell in love with the characters. The plot was well written and well thought out. A period piece. It takes you back in time. Hilarious but at times emotional. I enjoyed it thoroughly.
November 14, 2017
This one will make you laugh out loud. Great voice, great writing.
August 1, 2017
One of my fave books, not just of the year, but ever! This is a tender tale that has just claimed a piece of my heart. I absolutely loved EVERYTHING about it. Each character is written with such precision and so full of depth that I honestly swear they started jumping off the pages and came to life before my very eyes. For me Aunt Sookie is the star of the story, cantankerous but wise, not giving a hoot about who she insults, which is everyone, everyday. She is the most crude, crass and rude fictional character I have ever loved, bar none. The one person who could get past her hard exterior is Poppy, her 13 year old great niece who she has guardianship of and who's mature beyond her prepubescent years. The majority of this book is written through Poppy's eyes. The results had me howling out loud with laughter throughout most of the book. But there were also serious and even tragic events that had me clutching at my heart to keep it from breaking. The strength of Aunt Sookie and Poppy is what kept me from falling apart and I was able to rebound from the sorrow with their antics and again find joy and laughter due to their own unique type of love. Woven throughout this magical tale are a myriad of characters, each one an important and supporting piece of the plot.
I want to give a heartfelt thank you to the author for his gift of the written word. His talent is beyond amazing. It takes my breath away. In my opinion this book is a beautifully written 5 star must read classic.
I want to give a heartfelt thank you to the author for his gift of the written word. His talent is beyond amazing. It takes my breath away. In my opinion this book is a beautifully written 5 star must read classic.
January 8, 2018
There are no words to describe how much I enjoyed reading this book. I was hooked from the very first line and lost a good bit of sleep, and was worth it. The ending came too soon and I didn’t want to leave Aunt Sook and Poppy’s world. Their lives were crafted so perfectly that I could see them as real people and not fictional characters.
December 24, 2017
Gawd, this was a great read from beginning to end. The story never slows down. I gave the last two books five stars, and then read this well-written, hilarious novel. It was better than the last two books by far, so I have to give it six stars ... or reassess my last two reads.
January 24, 2018
We are proud to announce that AUNT SOOKIE & ME by Michael Scott Garvin is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!
November 30, 2018
Funny Story
I have never read such a funny story. This is different than what I am accustomed to reading. I recommend that they make this story into a comedy movie.
I have never read such a funny story. This is different than what I am accustomed to reading. I recommend that they make this story into a comedy movie.
June 1, 2019
4.5 stars so I rounded up. My best friend will like it & we share our 5 Stars.
It’s a comedic Southern story that hooked me early on.
It’s a comedic Southern story that hooked me early on.
August 20, 2017
Reviewed for readers favorite
Aunt Sookie & Me: the sordid tale of a scandalous southern belle by Michael Scott Garvin is a rollicking good tale set in the late 1960s a time of great prejudice, but also of great heart.
Thirteen year old Poppy Wainwright is being shipped to Savannah, Georgia, after the unexpected death of her grandmother to live with her grandmother’s ornery sister, Sookie. Filled with a quirky cast of characters, Aunt Sookie & Me: The Sordid Tale of a Scandalous Southern Belle is hilarious, heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Michael Scott Garvin crafts an enjoyable read as he details a year in the life of Poppy, a young trans-girl living through the cultural upheaval that was the 1960s. Garvin takes what could have been a grim tale and gives it a light approach while still highlighting some of the prejudice of the times.
While Poppy is the main character, her aunt Sookie is the heart of the story. Even though she has a ready insult for all that she meets she also has a ready hand to help. Rude, crude, and occasionally lewd, she nonetheless has a good head on her shoulder and I could not see Poppy being raised by anyone else.
But Aunt Sookie & Me: the sordid tale of a scandalous southern belle by Michael Scott Garvin is not all light heart frivolity and also dives into tragedy and sorrow that will have the reader holding their breath hoping that everyone makes it out alright in the end.
All around Garvin crafts a well written tale in the vein of many heartwarming southern classics.
Aunt Sookie & Me: the sordid tale of a scandalous southern belle by Michael Scott Garvin is a rollicking good tale set in the late 1960s a time of great prejudice, but also of great heart.
Thirteen year old Poppy Wainwright is being shipped to Savannah, Georgia, after the unexpected death of her grandmother to live with her grandmother’s ornery sister, Sookie. Filled with a quirky cast of characters, Aunt Sookie & Me: The Sordid Tale of a Scandalous Southern Belle is hilarious, heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Michael Scott Garvin crafts an enjoyable read as he details a year in the life of Poppy, a young trans-girl living through the cultural upheaval that was the 1960s. Garvin takes what could have been a grim tale and gives it a light approach while still highlighting some of the prejudice of the times.
While Poppy is the main character, her aunt Sookie is the heart of the story. Even though she has a ready insult for all that she meets she also has a ready hand to help. Rude, crude, and occasionally lewd, she nonetheless has a good head on her shoulder and I could not see Poppy being raised by anyone else.
But Aunt Sookie & Me: the sordid tale of a scandalous southern belle by Michael Scott Garvin is not all light heart frivolity and also dives into tragedy and sorrow that will have the reader holding their breath hoping that everyone makes it out alright in the end.
All around Garvin crafts a well written tale in the vein of many heartwarming southern classics.
September 15, 2018
A genuine good surprise awaits
Poppy and Aunt Sook are two characters from the deep South that you won't easily forget. Like Fannie Flagg's heroines the women are the story. Poppy's courage and conviction are astounding, especially in a time and place that simply cannot understand. But nevertheless she continues on with kindness and compassion towards other's shortcomings. A really really give star book!
Poppy and Aunt Sook are two characters from the deep South that you won't easily forget. Like Fannie Flagg's heroines the women are the story. Poppy's courage and conviction are astounding, especially in a time and place that simply cannot understand. But nevertheless she continues on with kindness and compassion towards other's shortcomings. A really really give star book!
January 12, 2020
A true look into being raised in the South! A inlighted journey through a youths she's of his peculiarities! The shared ideal of religion and hypocrisy of those folk who claim to be true Christian belivers! Everyone would like to have an Aunt Sookie! A must read you'll smile !
I loved the background setting in old southern town! I disliked the Loretta because we all know someone like her . You become enhanced by your fee!ing the author brings to your heart.!
I loved the background setting in old southern town! I disliked the Loretta because we all know someone like her . You become enhanced by your fee!ing the author brings to your heart.!
June 3, 2018
This is an amazing book. Well written and funny but dealing with some real big issues as well. “The Golden Rule instructs is to always treat others as we wish to be treated.” Good thing to remember, and shown in many different ways with the beautiful characters in this story!
May 19, 2020
Sass and crass
I was so utterly invested in each and everyone of these characters from the first page to the last. Bravo!
I was so utterly invested in each and everyone of these characters from the first page to the last. Bravo!
July 21, 2020
Such a heartfelt summer read narrated through the eyes of a young child. Aunt Sookie steals the show! Loved this poignant and hilarious read!
January 18, 2019
I noticed that many of the reviewers of this book emphasized how funny it is. Yes, it has that inevitable humor that comes with eccentric quirky Southern characters. I personally found the overall feeling to be a bit sad. The main character (Poppy) and several of the supporting characters (like Donita and Poppy's mother, Loretta) are dealing with major life-altering personal struggles. All that being said, the book is fun to read overall--and definitely not boring! And I'll admit, the final paragraphs were unexpected and made me smile. Four stars.
December 16, 2021
It’s the mid-1960’s when 13-year-old Poppy Wainwright is shuffled from Arkansas into the care of her great-aunt Sookie in Savannah, Georgia. While her irreverent aunt goes to battle with their bouffanted neighbors and gossips with the dandy ice cream man, Poppy throws off the mantle of misfit and revels in being herself in her new home. Toss in a cantankerous pet goat, a crumbling antebellum mansion that’s the disgrace of the neighborhood, and a mother who floats in and out of Poppy’s life, and you have a novel that is at times hilarious and heartbreaking, showing what it means to be a family and remaining true to yourself.
This was a difficult novel to summarize because A) – I can’t begin to capture the amazing voice and B) – the plot flipped itself on its head at about the 25% mark and I don’t want to throw out any spoilers if someone hasn’t read it.
And if you haven’t read it, I strongly recommend that you do. Seriously, you’re missing out. I’ll admit, I only noticed it on Kindle Unlimited because of the goat on the cover (I’m a sucker for goats), but now I’m going to have to buy a copy because I don’t want to give it back.
I’ve read many novels with vivid, flawed, and quirky characters. These folks sped past vivid and leapt straight into Technicolor. Foul-mouthed Aunt Sookie was the perfect foil for unflappable Poppy. My heart ached for both Loretta and Donita. The side characters, especially Pearl, Dixie, and Nedra, were simply delightful. The 1960’s came to life in this well-crafted setting. At times, I forgot I was reading historical fiction.
I realize this is a short-ish review but honestly, I don’t have enough words to gush over this novel and for once, absolutely nothing to pick at. Let me sum up by saying I finished it last night. This morning, I walked into work my coworker (and fellow bibliophile’s) office and blurted out, even before “Good morning,” – “You HAVE to read this book.” It’s that good.
I’d rate this novel more than five stars if I could.
This was a difficult novel to summarize because A) – I can’t begin to capture the amazing voice and B) – the plot flipped itself on its head at about the 25% mark and I don’t want to throw out any spoilers if someone hasn’t read it.
And if you haven’t read it, I strongly recommend that you do. Seriously, you’re missing out. I’ll admit, I only noticed it on Kindle Unlimited because of the goat on the cover (I’m a sucker for goats), but now I’m going to have to buy a copy because I don’t want to give it back.
I’ve read many novels with vivid, flawed, and quirky characters. These folks sped past vivid and leapt straight into Technicolor. Foul-mouthed Aunt Sookie was the perfect foil for unflappable Poppy. My heart ached for both Loretta and Donita. The side characters, especially Pearl, Dixie, and Nedra, were simply delightful. The 1960’s came to life in this well-crafted setting. At times, I forgot I was reading historical fiction.
I realize this is a short-ish review but honestly, I don’t have enough words to gush over this novel and for once, absolutely nothing to pick at. Let me sum up by saying I finished it last night. This morning, I walked into work my coworker (and fellow bibliophile’s) office and blurted out, even before “Good morning,” – “You HAVE to read this book.” It’s that good.
I’d rate this novel more than five stars if I could.
May 19, 2020
Wow!
This book took me completely by surprise. I got it when it was on sale in the kindle app, and I definitely only got it based on the fact that there was a goat on the cover. I loved the title and so I was like, why not! Then I chose it for my book club to read based on the reviews. It had great ratings and people commented on how it is a funny read. Well, yes it had some great parts that are quite humorous, but the underlying story is deep, touching, and tore at my heart! It was better than I could have expected.
That being said, there were parts that I was like... Really? So the book is about a 13 year old girl, Poppy, who goes to live with her great Aunt Dookie after her grandmother passes away. It takes place in 1968/1969, and is set in Savannah, Georgia. Now Poppy has what is referred to as peculiarities. I don't want to say what it is because you don't find out till part way through the book, and it took me completely by surprise! It was too good a reveal for me to run it for anyone! Anyway, taking place in the late 60s, and in the South, some people were more tolerant of her peculiarity than I would expect them to actually be in real life. Others acted exactly as readers would expect. It warmed my heart to see more tolerance and kind hearted people, though, so I can forgive that. Plus, the story is just too good to let that get in the way.
I don't want to say too much, just go and read this book. An excellent read!
This book took me completely by surprise. I got it when it was on sale in the kindle app, and I definitely only got it based on the fact that there was a goat on the cover. I loved the title and so I was like, why not! Then I chose it for my book club to read based on the reviews. It had great ratings and people commented on how it is a funny read. Well, yes it had some great parts that are quite humorous, but the underlying story is deep, touching, and tore at my heart! It was better than I could have expected.
That being said, there were parts that I was like... Really? So the book is about a 13 year old girl, Poppy, who goes to live with her great Aunt Dookie after her grandmother passes away. It takes place in 1968/1969, and is set in Savannah, Georgia. Now Poppy has what is referred to as peculiarities. I don't want to say what it is because you don't find out till part way through the book, and it took me completely by surprise! It was too good a reveal for me to run it for anyone! Anyway, taking place in the late 60s, and in the South, some people were more tolerant of her peculiarity than I would expect them to actually be in real life. Others acted exactly as readers would expect. It warmed my heart to see more tolerance and kind hearted people, though, so I can forgive that. Plus, the story is just too good to let that get in the way.
I don't want to say too much, just go and read this book. An excellent read!
September 22, 2017
Michael Scott Garvin's Sophomore novel is a take on Southern Gothic literature. Poppy Wainwright's life has never been easy. Ever. Her momma, damaged from terrible events from long ago, is a wandering spirit looking for something to fill her heart. Unfortunately, she tries to find this in men, booze, and drugs.
Poppy, meanwhile, is shuttled off to her grandmother Lainey's house until the day the old woman passes away.
Then, motherless and now grandmotherless, she's transported across the country to her Aunt Sookie's house and all hell is fixin' to break loose.
Tucked in the heart of Savannah, Georgia the events of this book unfold slowly, one bumper sticker statement at a time. Michael Scott Garvin captures the complexity of life, the complexities of youth, and takes the reader down to where the rubber meets the road and makes them explore the treads left behind.
Powerful, poignant, laugh out loud at some parts while others leave you shaking your head, Garvin's book will leave a lasting albeit bittersweet impression.
Poppy, meanwhile, is shuttled off to her grandmother Lainey's house until the day the old woman passes away.
Then, motherless and now grandmotherless, she's transported across the country to her Aunt Sookie's house and all hell is fixin' to break loose.
Tucked in the heart of Savannah, Georgia the events of this book unfold slowly, one bumper sticker statement at a time. Michael Scott Garvin captures the complexity of life, the complexities of youth, and takes the reader down to where the rubber meets the road and makes them explore the treads left behind.
Powerful, poignant, laugh out loud at some parts while others leave you shaking your head, Garvin's book will leave a lasting albeit bittersweet impression.
July 4, 2021
Once I began reading Aunt Sookie and Me, I quickly understood why Michael Scott Garvin has so many awards attached to his name. He earned the accolades with clever writing, complex characters, and the ability to tackle sensitive subject matter with a combination of understanding and playfulness. Through his amusing characters, Garvin encourages introspection and fosters understanding of human differences. Poppy, the main character in the story is resilient and optimistic, despite sheltering a life-altering secret. After you get to know the vulgar, blasphemous persona Aunt Sookie chooses to show the world, she’ll surprise you with unexpected tolerance and unvarnished wisdom. I enjoyed reading this book and am better for the experience.
January 16, 2021
I enjoyed this book. A goat , a child and her Mom and grandma eventually all living together. Poppy was sent to live there . Her Mom was a drug addict and kept looking for love in all the wrong places that she left to go and explore. Poppy never knew when she was coming back. She was kept at home for a few years being home schooled . She was allowed out and about much till she go a bit older. The book had lot of humor in it too. Toward the end of the story it changed somewhat. I had to stop and think at first. Poppy thats a girls name aint it. Well the story continues with a pastors sermon in church. And more surprises.
March 24, 2018
I was given this book as a Goodreads Giveaway.
The story is very topical, given it's set in 1968! I enjoyed the humorous writing style, the complicated characters and the face on tackling of stereotypes. Poppy's predicament is very 21st century but in a 60s setting, it highlights lots of current prejudices without being too oppressive in its delivery.
I enjoyed the story, finding lots of nuances that engaged my interest throughout. The ending was very satisfying and I would recommend reading it to everyone.
The story is very topical, given it's set in 1968! I enjoyed the humorous writing style, the complicated characters and the face on tackling of stereotypes. Poppy's predicament is very 21st century but in a 60s setting, it highlights lots of current prejudices without being too oppressive in its delivery.
I enjoyed the story, finding lots of nuances that engaged my interest throughout. The ending was very satisfying and I would recommend reading it to everyone.
October 24, 2018
OMG!! This had to be one of the funniest books I've read in a dog's age. I absolutely loved every word! There are those books that will stay with you for your entire life.. this is one of those rare gems! I cannot emphasize enough.. if you've not read this story.. GET IT.. and get to reading it! I have highlighted a ton of my favorite quotes from the book.. omg.. there are SO many of them! Well.. what the hell are you waiting for?? Get busy.. and buy it.. and then.. get busy reading.. laughing!!
January 1, 2020
Fabulous
I'm southern, although I spent my life being hauled around the world by the whims of the military.
I met my first friend with proclivities in the fourth grade. Her parents did more damage than any one. That was '68 in CA.
My VERY southern Baptist mother explained to me "in English, proper medical words included" what all the fuss was about. I never saw anything to get my panties in a wad. Still don't.
God gives us blessings in many disguises. All we can do is follow Him.
I'm southern, although I spent my life being hauled around the world by the whims of the military.
I met my first friend with proclivities in the fourth grade. Her parents did more damage than any one. That was '68 in CA.
My VERY southern Baptist mother explained to me "in English, proper medical words included" what all the fuss was about. I never saw anything to get my panties in a wad. Still don't.
God gives us blessings in many disguises. All we can do is follow Him.
October 10, 2020
Illuminating
And liberating. What a wonderful way you explored and brought to life the characters and their stories. All of them but particularly Poppy, Snookie and Loretta. A very insightful and sensitive approach to Poppy’s psycho sexual development and the hope and optimism of the human spirit. Loved the relationships and particularly Darryl’s support of Poppy. That Snookie is a character and a credit to liberated womenhood. Should be required reading for middle school. Thank you and for God’s sake keep writing. You have a beautiful gift.
And liberating. What a wonderful way you explored and brought to life the characters and their stories. All of them but particularly Poppy, Snookie and Loretta. A very insightful and sensitive approach to Poppy’s psycho sexual development and the hope and optimism of the human spirit. Loved the relationships and particularly Darryl’s support of Poppy. That Snookie is a character and a credit to liberated womenhood. Should be required reading for middle school. Thank you and for God’s sake keep writing. You have a beautiful gift.
June 3, 2020
This book was everything! It had me laughing out loud at almost every page and surprised at several moments. Each of these characters is so cleverly detailed and likeable in their own quirky way. The writing is deliciously descriptive and beautifully woven. There are so many quotable and memorable moments, this should be an instant hit and classic. I will sing this books praises to any and everyone!!!
September 7, 2021
Well done on this book! This author keeps a story interesting from the beginning until the end for sure! When I read it I did not know what to expect, and this one made me surprised but in a very good way! Aunt Sookie...just wow! The story taking place in the south I was able to understand the comments, and conversations. How it was worded I was able to understand and keep on reading the story. It was well-formatted. I cannot wait to read more from this author.
July 6, 2018
I won a copy of this ebook in a goodreads giveaway.
I loved everything about this book. This is a coming of age story that will pull on your heartstrings and you'll just fall in love with the character Poppy and her sweet disposition. Aunt Sookie had me in stitches the whole book and reminded me of a few of my own relatives. This is a very well written novel that is well worth your time!
I loved everything about this book. This is a coming of age story that will pull on your heartstrings and you'll just fall in love with the character Poppy and her sweet disposition. Aunt Sookie had me in stitches the whole book and reminded me of a few of my own relatives. This is a very well written novel that is well worth your time!
August 31, 2020
Aunt Sookie speaks true to women everywhere
Good writing and great characters propel the readers forward,holding their breaths like a Mark Twain Huckleberry Finn adventure told by a girl! it has strange unexpected humor and wisdom about the search for love and how to move through life I will always remember Sookie!
Good writing and great characters propel the readers forward,holding their breaths like a Mark Twain Huckleberry Finn adventure told by a girl! it has strange unexpected humor and wisdom about the search for love and how to move through life I will always remember Sookie!
January 9, 2021
Just what I needed.
Aunt Sookie & Me made me laugh out loud! I usually read historic fiction but some of it was just getting a little too heavy for the times. What I really needed was a sweet story with great characters and hysterical dialogue. This is it! Thank you Michael Scott Garvin.
Aunt Sookie & Me made me laugh out loud! I usually read historic fiction but some of it was just getting a little too heavy for the times. What I really needed was a sweet story with great characters and hysterical dialogue. This is it! Thank you Michael Scott Garvin.
March 7, 2021
Beautiful funny support system Poppy's got.
Within the first few chapters you get tossed a curve ball. Thought I might not like it once discovered. But the book didn't go in the direction I thought it might thankfully. Turned out to be a heart warming humorous read with such great characters.
Within the first few chapters you get tossed a curve ball. Thought I might not like it once discovered. But the book didn't go in the direction I thought it might thankfully. Turned out to be a heart warming humorous read with such great characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews