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Sally
Semi-Finalist in the 2018 William Faulkner – William Wisdom Writing Contest, 5 Star Readers' Favorite, IHIBRP Reviews Recommended Read It’s 1968. Alice, a white nurse at an old-folks’ home, makes friends with the establishment’s oldest and only African-American resident, Sally. Alice shares a special bond with Sally, a bond she only divulges to her husband. Alice gains Sally’s trust and records her life and all the struggles she faced as a black person born into slavery. Decades later, Michelle moves into her grandmother’s house. She finds her grandmother’s journals stored away in the attic, where they have lain untouched for forty years. A picture falls out. It is of an African-American woman and her grandmother. It is inscribed: My ancestor, Sally Ann Barnes, 1858 to 1969. Michelle devours the contents of the journals. They end abruptly. Michelle makes it her mission to find out more about Sally. The quest brings up more questions than answers. Just when she thinks she has come to a dead end, she uncovers the most startling fact of all. Inspired by the life of Sally Ann Barnes 1858 to 1969
288 pages, Paperback
Published September 21, 2017
136 people are currently reading
1381 people want to read
About the author
J. Schlenker
15 books393 followers J. Schlenker, a late-blooming author, lives with her husband, Chris, in the splendid center of nowhere in the foothills of Appalachia in Kentucky, where the only things to disturb her writing are croaking frogs, screaming guineas, and the occasional sounds of hay being cut in the fields.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
September 21, 2017
Sally by J. Schlenker has touched me with a strength, a grace, and a beauty that belies the sadness that the pages hold. This is an encompassing story of a woman's life. A long life that begins as a slave and takes her through the MLK years. The story is told with heart. You feel the understanding emanate from Sally, and you wonder, would I be as forgiving, as loving?
Now after reading Sally, I hope I would. I hope I can take her pearls of wisdom and understanding and surround myself with the ease of what was, was.
In sharing the research side as well as the human side of this story, Schlenker filled me with a desire to research my own life and look for a Marthe, Elizabeth, Nell, and Sally of my own. My researching fingers are tingling with the desire to uncover a community and characters as rich as the ones in Sally.
The beauty of Sally shone through from day one. Her strength to not be relegated to the back of the bus, her strength of forgiveness and the power of comprehension of things that we still as a society struggle with today.
If everyone read Sally, a new sense of hope, love, and forgiveness would shine through. As in the other books by J. I found a spiritual ease in the words. I found an ugliness of human nature but sitting alongside that ugliness was compassion; new shoe compassion, a horseback ride to a new life compassion, and compassion of the oppressed for the oppressor.
These things are not always present in a book. They can be fleeting when writing to find a warmth in a narrative, yet Sally succeeded. This book has a warmth, a painful history, but a glowing spirit of setting things right. I believe this should be read by anyone that struggles with the past in their own family or was an uninvolved witness to the ugliness of the past.
I found the pearls of wisdom much greater coming from a kindly strong woman like Sally than any professor. I found beauty in many beautiful moments that were surrounded by the ugliness and hatefulness of the time.
I also realized this story was fun in many ways. The sense of adventure of a woman that might have discovered a secret. A woman that knew terror and held her head high in spite of it all. This is a powerful book with many lessons to glean. I will be re-reading this book looking for those lessons to apply to my own life.
Now after reading Sally, I hope I would. I hope I can take her pearls of wisdom and understanding and surround myself with the ease of what was, was.
In sharing the research side as well as the human side of this story, Schlenker filled me with a desire to research my own life and look for a Marthe, Elizabeth, Nell, and Sally of my own. My researching fingers are tingling with the desire to uncover a community and characters as rich as the ones in Sally.
The beauty of Sally shone through from day one. Her strength to not be relegated to the back of the bus, her strength of forgiveness and the power of comprehension of things that we still as a society struggle with today.
If everyone read Sally, a new sense of hope, love, and forgiveness would shine through. As in the other books by J. I found a spiritual ease in the words. I found an ugliness of human nature but sitting alongside that ugliness was compassion; new shoe compassion, a horseback ride to a new life compassion, and compassion of the oppressed for the oppressor.
These things are not always present in a book. They can be fleeting when writing to find a warmth in a narrative, yet Sally succeeded. This book has a warmth, a painful history, but a glowing spirit of setting things right. I believe this should be read by anyone that struggles with the past in their own family or was an uninvolved witness to the ugliness of the past.
I found the pearls of wisdom much greater coming from a kindly strong woman like Sally than any professor. I found beauty in many beautiful moments that were surrounded by the ugliness and hatefulness of the time.
I also realized this story was fun in many ways. The sense of adventure of a woman that might have discovered a secret. A woman that knew terror and held her head high in spite of it all. This is a powerful book with many lessons to glean. I will be re-reading this book looking for those lessons to apply to my own life.
September 25, 2018
5 Stars from Readers' Favorites
Reviewed by Kimberlee J Benart for Readers' Favorite
Sally: A Novel is the fictional account of the life of Sally Ann Barnes (1858 - 1969), a black woman born into slavery in Kentucky. Author J. Schlenker met Sally briefly as a child, when Sally was over one hundred years old. Her memory of that meeting later inspired Schlenker to research Sally's life. An introduction and an afterword discuss what is factually known, including several photographs and other documents. In the fictional account, which Schlenker tells by interweaving points of view from characters in three separate timelines, she incorporates those facts into a fascinating tale of endurance, forgiveness, and discovery. The result is a complex tapestry that spans several generations of black, white, and mixed-race families, with Sally at its heart.
On the one hand, Sally: A Novel is disturbing, as it addresses the harsh and inhumane conditions faced by enslaved Americans, especially women, as well as the deep-seated racism that no war or law could end with the proverbial snap of a finger. On the other hand, this is a deeply engaging story. Schlenker writes in flowing, descriptive, and emotionally evocative prose. The main characters are well-developed and relatable. It's a story that will make you think twice about the so-called ordinary lives of ordinary people. It may also inspire the reader to research the lives of his or her own ancestors, especially if there are elderly family members still living who may know something of their stories; or to keep a journal for the benefit of descendants. Highly recommended.
Reviewed by Kimberlee J Benart for Readers' Favorite
Sally: A Novel is the fictional account of the life of Sally Ann Barnes (1858 - 1969), a black woman born into slavery in Kentucky. Author J. Schlenker met Sally briefly as a child, when Sally was over one hundred years old. Her memory of that meeting later inspired Schlenker to research Sally's life. An introduction and an afterword discuss what is factually known, including several photographs and other documents. In the fictional account, which Schlenker tells by interweaving points of view from characters in three separate timelines, she incorporates those facts into a fascinating tale of endurance, forgiveness, and discovery. The result is a complex tapestry that spans several generations of black, white, and mixed-race families, with Sally at its heart.
On the one hand, Sally: A Novel is disturbing, as it addresses the harsh and inhumane conditions faced by enslaved Americans, especially women, as well as the deep-seated racism that no war or law could end with the proverbial snap of a finger. On the other hand, this is a deeply engaging story. Schlenker writes in flowing, descriptive, and emotionally evocative prose. The main characters are well-developed and relatable. It's a story that will make you think twice about the so-called ordinary lives of ordinary people. It may also inspire the reader to research the lives of his or her own ancestors, especially if there are elderly family members still living who may know something of their stories; or to keep a journal for the benefit of descendants. Highly recommended.
February 13, 2018
Sally, A Novel is the fictional account of the life of Sally Ann Barnes (1858 - 1969), a black woman born into slavery in Kentucky. Author J. Schlenker met Sally briefly as a child, when Sally was over one hundred years old. Her memory of that meeting later inspired Schlenker to research Sally’s life. An introduction and an afterword discuss what is factually known, including several photographs and other documents. In the fictional account, which Schlenker tells by interweaving points of view from characters in three separate timelines, she incorporates those facts into a fascinating tale of endurance, forgiveness, and discovery. The result is a complex tapestry that spans several generations of black, white, and mixed-race families, with Sally at its heart.
On the one hand, Sally, A Novel is disturbing, as it addresses the harsh and inhuman conditions faced by enslaved Americans, especially women, as well as the deep-seated racism that no war or law could end with the proverbial snap of a finger. On the other hand, Sally is a deeply engaging story. Schlenker writes in flowing, descriptive, and emotionally evocative prose. The main characters are well-developed and relatable. It’s a story that will make you think twice about the so-called ordinary lives of ordinary people. It may also inspire the reader to research the lives of his or her own ancestors, especially if there are elderly family members still living who may know something of their stories; or to keep a journal for the benefit of descendants. Highly recommended.
On the one hand, Sally, A Novel is disturbing, as it addresses the harsh and inhuman conditions faced by enslaved Americans, especially women, as well as the deep-seated racism that no war or law could end with the proverbial snap of a finger. On the other hand, Sally is a deeply engaging story. Schlenker writes in flowing, descriptive, and emotionally evocative prose. The main characters are well-developed and relatable. It’s a story that will make you think twice about the so-called ordinary lives of ordinary people. It may also inspire the reader to research the lives of his or her own ancestors, especially if there are elderly family members still living who may know something of their stories; or to keep a journal for the benefit of descendants. Highly recommended.
May 17, 2020
A read as beautiful as the lady on the cover!
Powerful, touching story which I thoroughly enjoyed. Well written, perfectly paced and interesting from cover to cover.
Highly recommended!
Powerful, touching story which I thoroughly enjoyed. Well written, perfectly paced and interesting from cover to cover.
Highly recommended!
September 20, 2017
Sally is a novel by J. Schlenker. Sally Ann Barnes was a slave and did actually live. The author heard her story and began doing research on her. However, there were too many gaps in the information so instead of writing as a biography, she decided to write it as fiction. This makes the reading of the book flow easily and quickly. The story grabs your attention and you find yourself not wanting to stop. My suggestion is to start it early and to have tissues handy while reading it.
Sally was born a slave to her father, Jesse Barnes. He was a slave trader and evidently a mean man. When she was three, her Mother died and Sally was taken by Mrs. Erwin who lived nearby and who owned Sally’s grandmother. Sally lived there for several years before going back to Jesse Barnes. Sally was sold to Martha and Charles Campbell to help Martha care for her sick husband. After Charles died, Martha married a Bonzo. While working for them, Sally bore a daughter, Sally Ann. Sally never told who Sally Ann’s father was.
It was through her grandmother’s work at a nursing home that the author became aware of who Sally was. After much research, she wrote this book. I highly recommend this book as a look at the world after the Civil War.
Sally was born a slave to her father, Jesse Barnes. He was a slave trader and evidently a mean man. When she was three, her Mother died and Sally was taken by Mrs. Erwin who lived nearby and who owned Sally’s grandmother. Sally lived there for several years before going back to Jesse Barnes. Sally was sold to Martha and Charles Campbell to help Martha care for her sick husband. After Charles died, Martha married a Bonzo. While working for them, Sally bore a daughter, Sally Ann. Sally never told who Sally Ann’s father was.
It was through her grandmother’s work at a nursing home that the author became aware of who Sally was. After much research, she wrote this book. I highly recommend this book as a look at the world after the Civil War.
March 4, 2018
Sally
In 1968, at the age of 109, Sally was living in a mixed-race old-age home where discrimination was still practiced. Through one of her more compassionate carers, she recalls how she was born into slavery and of the unjust treatment endured by so many like her.
The story moves smoothly through various generations and explores Sally’s memories, highlighting how little human life was valued in those times. Much research went into the writing of this book and the fact and fiction blend well with a nice twist at the end.
Being British, I had some trouble with Sally’s southern dialect and often had to re-read parts. However, it did not detract from my enjoyment of the novel, which I believe had to be told this way to keep its authenticity.
This is a story everyone should read and perhaps part of every high school curriculum.
In 1968, at the age of 109, Sally was living in a mixed-race old-age home where discrimination was still practiced. Through one of her more compassionate carers, she recalls how she was born into slavery and of the unjust treatment endured by so many like her.
The story moves smoothly through various generations and explores Sally’s memories, highlighting how little human life was valued in those times. Much research went into the writing of this book and the fact and fiction blend well with a nice twist at the end.
Being British, I had some trouble with Sally’s southern dialect and often had to re-read parts. However, it did not detract from my enjoyment of the novel, which I believe had to be told this way to keep its authenticity.
This is a story everyone should read and perhaps part of every high school curriculum.
February 14, 2018
What a compelling tale (based mostly on fact) about an era of slavery in this country, strong-willed women, and fate. Sally’s journey through life was troubling, fascinating, and informative all at the same time. The story is intriguing, the characters deftly portrayed, and the glimpse into a slice of nineteenth century US history powerful. The way the author weaves fact with fiction is exemplary and captivating, and the fact that it is the author’s story as well makes this book especially appealing. I couldn’t put it down.
March 8, 2020
Good read
I really enjoyed the story. This book kept my interest and I could not put it down. Would recommend it.
I really enjoyed the story. This book kept my interest and I could not put it down. Would recommend it.
January 3, 2018
I love historical fiction. And I found this topic especially important. One of those we mustn’t forget. Ever. And the author does it great justice. I don’t really know what to say except – read it. It’s an amazing journey, especially for us as human beings. Sally’s life is something we should all be aware of, all remember. A good book should make you feel with intensity. And that’s what this book does. That’s what Sally does. She shows you what kind of strength you develop when you live the type of life she did. I admire the author for doing all this research and I think everyone at any age should read this book.
March 29, 2018
If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I would.
Sally was born into slavery and lived longer than a century. She observed and was the victim of the continued attitude toward African Americans despite the abolishment of slavery when she was a child. Despite all her suffering, she maintained a kindness and inner peace that served her well.
The author did an excellent job bringing Sally to life, and she artfully combined fact and fiction. The story made me want to know Sally, and bask in the glow of her goodness.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn what it takes to be strong and good despite continued adversity.
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I read this book again and my initial feeling is the same. Sally is beautiful. Even though it is a fictional account of history, the depth of the characters and the world built around them is so believable that the reader is totally embraced by the story.
The horror and joy that Sally endured throughout her life give the reader the feeling of what being a slave was really like. It is a trip that everyone should take.
Sally was born into slavery and lived longer than a century. She observed and was the victim of the continued attitude toward African Americans despite the abolishment of slavery when she was a child. Despite all her suffering, she maintained a kindness and inner peace that served her well.
The author did an excellent job bringing Sally to life, and she artfully combined fact and fiction. The story made me want to know Sally, and bask in the glow of her goodness.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn what it takes to be strong and good despite continued adversity.
———————————————————————
I read this book again and my initial feeling is the same. Sally is beautiful. Even though it is a fictional account of history, the depth of the characters and the world built around them is so believable that the reader is totally embraced by the story.
The horror and joy that Sally endured throughout her life give the reader the feeling of what being a slave was really like. It is a trip that everyone should take.
May 12, 2018
GNAb Sally is an excellent book, and I love that the fictionalized life of 'Sally' is interwoven with the fictional life of Michelle, and all is based loosely on the known lives of Sally and J. Schlenker. This was a wonderful tribute to the life of Sally Barnes. It is also a tribute to the digging prowess of J. Schlenker. Even in a small, insular community finding details about the lives of persons three and four generations back is not guaranteed. All that was found and shared with us is remarkable, and Sally is a person we would all be pleased to find in our heritage.
I received a free electronic copy of this novel based on fact from Netgalley, J. Schlenker, and Binka Publishing LLC - BooksGoSocial in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me.
pub date Sept 2017
Binka Publishing LLC - BooksGoSocial
I received a free electronic copy of this novel based on fact from Netgalley, J. Schlenker, and Binka Publishing LLC - BooksGoSocial in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me.
pub date Sept 2017
Binka Publishing LLC - BooksGoSocial
September 18, 2017
Author Jerri Schlenker has composed a fascinating, extremely well-researched book about the life of "Sally," a woman who was born a slave but died, 110 years later, a free woman. Tracing her history through the lives of her owners, employers and friends, Ms Schlenker gives us glimpses of life in another era and shares a remarkable story. This novelization provides many insights while weaving a compelling tale.
February 3, 2018
A white woman discovers a photo with her grandmother's journals and learns there is a black woman in her bloodline. This story lovingly follows her journey of discovery. I loved the way the story is revealed in the present, the recent past during Martin Luther King's time and then all the way in Sally's own words to a time of slavery. Schlenker's voice is wonderful, seamlessly leading us through the doors of time to reveal this poignant tale.
October 19, 2017
Touching and warm
A Fascinating story about real life in Kentucky and the attitudes of people both good and bad. The dialogues are realistic and express true belief systems of many living in those times. The fears, delights, hopes, disappoints and joys are all there in a story which will captivate your interest, and have you begging for more!
A Fascinating story about real life in Kentucky and the attitudes of people both good and bad. The dialogues are realistic and express true belief systems of many living in those times. The fears, delights, hopes, disappoints and joys are all there in a story which will captivate your interest, and have you begging for more!
October 17, 2017
Sally by J. Schlenker is a breathtakingly beautiful, haunting read about a woman named Sally, born into slavery and lived to appreciate MLK. And in that time line, the period between Sally’s birth and death is much rich history. Racial tension rears its ugly head in the very beginning with Sally in a care-facility and two nurses take differing sides of the “colored” folk opposing views. Sally, a109/110 year-old (the records are conflicting), tells her story to her compassionate nurse, Alice, recently retired and returns to listen. Sally’s story begins at the turn of the nineteenth century with a family that would later come to own her as a young child. The characters involved in these scenes are richly portrayed as the time line moves forward to mention of a poignant scene as slaves tearfully say goodbye to their own, just a young girl, whose mother has died. The story moves back and forth in time from the convalescent home to Sally’s evolution. It takes us to travel to Kentucky when there is concern over Indians, through the start of the American Civil War, hiding in caves, surprisingly showing a different side to the Yankees, to encounters with a past oppressive master, a big furnace blast, right on up to living to see MLK on a television set. This story is rich in metaphors and I particularly liked the use of “heaven” where “all are same and no color.”
This is a well-crafted story by an author who knows how to elicit the human spirit and bring the human condition alive on the page. The story beautifully told brings much heart and wisdom to Sally, the protagonist and it is in this tenderness that it is hard to put the book down. During a time in history when so much hatred emanated toward African American slaves, it is easy to comprehend how an individual could come out scathed and himself or herself filled with hatred. What is awe inspiring is to encounter someone possessed with forgiveness and love amidst this backdrop. It is this conflict and contrast that makes Sally an unforgettable character. Based on a real person and filled in with historical and storyline fiction impeccably researched, this is a most compelling and engaging read. A good read can possess one of two qualities: entertainment and enlightenment. A great book, rare as it is has both. Sally is a great book. Well worth the read.
This is a well-crafted story by an author who knows how to elicit the human spirit and bring the human condition alive on the page. The story beautifully told brings much heart and wisdom to Sally, the protagonist and it is in this tenderness that it is hard to put the book down. During a time in history when so much hatred emanated toward African American slaves, it is easy to comprehend how an individual could come out scathed and himself or herself filled with hatred. What is awe inspiring is to encounter someone possessed with forgiveness and love amidst this backdrop. It is this conflict and contrast that makes Sally an unforgettable character. Based on a real person and filled in with historical and storyline fiction impeccably researched, this is a most compelling and engaging read. A good read can possess one of two qualities: entertainment and enlightenment. A great book, rare as it is has both. Sally is a great book. Well worth the read.
June 18, 2018
“Sally” is an enthralling read based on actual history. It is apparent that the author went to great lengths to research her subject, not only recounting more than 100-years of African American history but the American journey as a whole. Focusing on both past and present, Schlenker touches on powerful pivotal issues that steered the direction of the nation during the late 1800’s to the turbulent 1960’s and beyond. In this multi-generational fictional biography, her main character speaks with candor about slavery, segregation, emancipation, duty to home and country, ethics and morality, and basic human rights while presenting an entertaining but somber, and oftentimes shocking, tale about a woman of color and her family’s American experience at the turn of the century.
“Sally” certainly tugs at the heartstrings, for by the time one finishes this tale, her story will remain with you long after the reading is over. There is unspeakable cruelty doled out upon many of the characters in this book, but there is also a strong sense of family and friends drawing together to overcome great odds and meet impossible goals. It is a book in which you will mourn one moment only to cheer and celebrate the next. The author has thought to include extraordinary photos of the titled character and her relations in her book along with historical and genealogical research that supports this story. There is also a short bibliography at the end of the book.
“Sally” effectively depicts life as it was during a terrible time in U.S. History and reflective of those times is the now objectionable language harkening back to the days of slavery, bigotry, and ignorance—particularly in the use of the “N-word” when referring to two characters’ names in particular. The use of any such terms, however, is based on the actual history of that time and drives home the extreme prejudice and hardships that were endured by African Americans. This book would certainly be a valuable accompaniment to any high school or college course relating to American History, African American studies, the Civil War, or the Civil Rights movement. I highly recommend this novel for anyone who wishes to understand the high cost of fighting for what is right and what it means to be truly free.
“Sally” certainly tugs at the heartstrings, for by the time one finishes this tale, her story will remain with you long after the reading is over. There is unspeakable cruelty doled out upon many of the characters in this book, but there is also a strong sense of family and friends drawing together to overcome great odds and meet impossible goals. It is a book in which you will mourn one moment only to cheer and celebrate the next. The author has thought to include extraordinary photos of the titled character and her relations in her book along with historical and genealogical research that supports this story. There is also a short bibliography at the end of the book.
“Sally” effectively depicts life as it was during a terrible time in U.S. History and reflective of those times is the now objectionable language harkening back to the days of slavery, bigotry, and ignorance—particularly in the use of the “N-word” when referring to two characters’ names in particular. The use of any such terms, however, is based on the actual history of that time and drives home the extreme prejudice and hardships that were endured by African Americans. This book would certainly be a valuable accompaniment to any high school or college course relating to American History, African American studies, the Civil War, or the Civil Rights movement. I highly recommend this novel for anyone who wishes to understand the high cost of fighting for what is right and what it means to be truly free.
March 10, 2018
With the popularity of 23andMe and ancestry websites, "Sally" feels particularly timely. Ethnicity and origins can now be accessed and verified, and many of us may discover that we have all kinds of surprises lurking in our DNA.
One such surprise came for author J. Schlenker, who — using historical records, journals, family lore, and sleuthing skills — crafts a compelling look at Sally, a Black woman and Schlenker's relative. In her 109 years, Sally was privy to the complicated and sometimes ugly history of slavery, Reconstruction, Jim Crow, and the Civil Rights movement.
This beautifully presented novel hopscotches through the timeline, using a variety of viewpoints to relate Sally’s history. Occasionally, I found the jumping around confusing, which date headings might have solved. I also found myself less interested in the contemporary viewpoints because Sally was such a fascinating character and I missed her presence. However, the switches from past to present and back again serve the important purpose of showing characters grappling with their complex legacy.
One such surprise came for author J. Schlenker, who — using historical records, journals, family lore, and sleuthing skills — crafts a compelling look at Sally, a Black woman and Schlenker's relative. In her 109 years, Sally was privy to the complicated and sometimes ugly history of slavery, Reconstruction, Jim Crow, and the Civil Rights movement.
This beautifully presented novel hopscotches through the timeline, using a variety of viewpoints to relate Sally’s history. Occasionally, I found the jumping around confusing, which date headings might have solved. I also found myself less interested in the contemporary viewpoints because Sally was such a fascinating character and I missed her presence. However, the switches from past to present and back again serve the important purpose of showing characters grappling with their complex legacy.
June 9, 2021
Readers are lucky enough to step into the life of Sally Ann Barnes. This story looks at slavery. life, and hardship in a special way and lets readers see what life is like from someone who lived through a terrible time in history. I hope readers can take a lot away from this story, but mostly empathy and compassion.
August 1, 2021
Excellent
Well written and documented. Love the intertwined fact and fiction writing, and the pictures. The mysteries left are good examples of how life goes. There are so many questions I wish I had asked my grandparents and my mother when I had the chance.
Well written and documented. Love the intertwined fact and fiction writing, and the pictures. The mysteries left are good examples of how life goes. There are so many questions I wish I had asked my grandparents and my mother when I had the chance.
March 23, 2020
Great read.
July 28, 2021
"Sally" is excellent historical fiction based on a person who lived to the age of a hundred and ten years during difficult times. The author tells us "hard times polish the soul" - "Sally" is the result. I needed to read this book.
September 21, 2017
Very well written and interesting book. J. Schlenker does an exceptional job of combining historical references with a personal lifetime experience. Sally is a woman born to an american slave and lives long enough to witness the great civil rights movement in the 1960's over 100 years later. It's a intriguing story line that should please anyone with interests in black history, Appalachian pioneer life or just a good story with plenty of surprises and unexpected twists.
The narrative flows well and projected dialogue feels accurate and written in such as way that is easy to understand.
The narrative flows well and projected dialogue feels accurate and written in such as way that is easy to understand.
November 9, 2017
As an adoptee, stories that explore anyone's genealogy are very intriguing. Some forty years ago, I was asked to day-sit with a friend's mother, who had been born to former slaves in South Carolina. She shared many similar stories with me, so I was excited to read J. Schlenker's account of Sally's life.
I found the peeling back of layers of Sally's story enthralling. I doubt I would have 'been as forgiving and kind as Sally, had I endured the same degradation as she.
Certainly, Sally would be proud of this book, yet humbled by its certain success.
I found the peeling back of layers of Sally's story enthralling. I doubt I would have 'been as forgiving and kind as Sally, had I endured the same degradation as she.
Certainly, Sally would be proud of this book, yet humbled by its certain success.
September 21, 2017
Good read
I liked the story, it flowed well and since I'm from carter county I'm familiar with the places and having lived in Greenup county I'm familiar with the Bonzo's and the stories about them, which probably could be another book.
Well done Jerri!
I liked the story, it flowed well and since I'm from carter county I'm familiar with the places and having lived in Greenup county I'm familiar with the Bonzo's and the stories about them, which probably could be another book.
Well done Jerri!
December 4, 2017
I had picked up another book by the same author and thought this one sounded interesting. It was amazing. The author makes clear that some of this was based in fact but that research showed too many conflicting tales for the whole story to be true. I thought she wound the fiction with the fact perfectly and told the stories beautifully. I was intrigued and hooked from the first page. It was an amazing story and I loved every part of it. Highly recommended.
April 6, 2018
‘Sally’ is an account of one woman tracing her roots to one of the most despicable and inhuman cultural contstructs in human history. Sensitively researched and written with the help of first-hand accounts of those who had contact with her or knew her personally, Sally’s previously unrecorded and largely unacknowledged life is given prominence and personal clarity through the genealogically inquisitive efforts of author, J. Schlenker. The content is absolutely enthralling and Schlenker succeeds in imparting a real sense of the depravity, injustices and prejudices surrounding segregation during Sally’s lifetime from the late 1850s until the middle 20th century.
April 9, 2018
The story seemed confusing to me.
July 8, 2023
Excellent book!!!
July 24, 2018
Once I began reading J. Schlenker’s book, Sally, I did not want to put it down. Sally hooked me from the very first page. Although Sally is a work of fiction, Schlenker based the book on real-life events and captures the oppression and bigotry of the American South. The protagonist, Sally Hughes, exemplifies the indomitable spirit of survivors of slavery and Schlenker illuminates the fact that little changed at the end of the Civil War. Although Congress intended the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments to grant liberties to all people regardless of race, the attitudes of white people in the US have been monumentally slow to change. There were many things I appreciated and enjoyed in this book. First, Sally’s discussion of the pain caused by a single 6 letter word was powerful and shows that the words we speak can cause damage. Secondly, Schlenker accurately portrays the idea that many white people viewed African-Americans as nothing more than livestock. The characters’ discussions reveal their heinous ideas about their fellow human beings. The book also sheds light on the rampant sexual abuse of African-American women by white men. Although I have read similar accounts in the past, it is still hard to think that my ancestors may have felt similarly. Schlenker’s accounts of hatred, abuse, and racism brought tears to my eyes. Finally, one can tell that the author spent considerable time researching the story. In one part of the book, Sally ponders whether Native Americans ask their potential spouse for her/his hand in marriage. She points out that African Americans do not propose marriage like white people. They jump over a broom instead. This snippet shows that Sally is cognizant of cultural differences and understands we should recognize and celebrate our diverse traditions. It would be wonderful if more people could be like Sally. Although she never had formal education, Sally was immensely intelligent and wise.
This book describes a dark part of our national history and illuminates segregation, oppression, and hatred that African-Americans face(d). I absolutely fell in love with the characters, especially Sally and her grandmother, Nell. The author brings these two people to life and made it seem as if I knew them personally. My favorite part of the book is the message that we are all connected in some way or another. We all have so much in common and our differences should be celebrated, not shunned. This story is a journey that brings joy, laughter, tears, anger, shame, and numerous other emotions. This book is a must read, that you will not want to put down.
This book describes a dark part of our national history and illuminates segregation, oppression, and hatred that African-Americans face(d). I absolutely fell in love with the characters, especially Sally and her grandmother, Nell. The author brings these two people to life and made it seem as if I knew them personally. My favorite part of the book is the message that we are all connected in some way or another. We all have so much in common and our differences should be celebrated, not shunned. This story is a journey that brings joy, laughter, tears, anger, shame, and numerous other emotions. This book is a must read, that you will not want to put down.
December 17, 2018
THE WISHING SHELF BOOK AWARDS
15th March, 2018
TITLE: Sally
AUTHOR: J. Schlenker
Star Rating: 4.5
‘The powerful story of a black woman in the American South and the astonishing life she lived.’
REVIEW
For the last three days I have been thoroughly immersed in Sally, a biographical novel following the life of a black woman called Sally. Let me begin by saying how gripping Sally’s story is. Not only is the historical aspect of the novel interesting, but the setting and characters jump off the page. There is, I think, nothing better than a novel written by an author who knows how to balance setting, speech and plot.
But it is still the historical elements of the story that worked the best, from Sally’s life in slavery to the slow development of human rights. It is here that the author excels, showing off not only her flowing style of writing but also her knowledge of the time Sally lived in (1858 – 1969) and of her characters. I often find with historical novels, the author falls into the trap of bringing too many characters into the story which results in a confused reader and a watering down of the plot. Thankfully, this author did not do this, and the central characters were well developed and impossible to mix up.
The pacing of the story is also excellent. Many new authors tend to describe setting and characters in hefty lumps of text. But this can kill the pace of the story. Thankfully, this writer seems wise to this, cleverly mixing up speech and the describing of character and setting. Subsequently, the writing felt light and not at all like wading through cauliflower-cheese. And, where there is description, it is imaginatively written.
If I was to be critical, it is only to comment on the way the story jumps back and forth in time. Although this is an important plot device, is not handled particularly well, and, as a result, I was often a little confused as to who was talking – and, most importantly, when. But I suspect a good editor could find a remedy to this niggling problem.
All in all, this is a gem of a book. It is also hard-hitting, laying bare the history of the American South; a history of hatred, brutality and a white community refusing to change. There is the odd lighter moment; moments you can cheer on the indomitable spirit of Sally. But much of this story of white supremacy is sobering which, to be honest, is exactly how it should be.
Powerfully written and populated with well-developed characters, I would recommend this book to anybody interested in American history. Or to anybody who simply enjoys a gripping story.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
15th March, 2018
TITLE: Sally
AUTHOR: J. Schlenker
Star Rating: 4.5
‘The powerful story of a black woman in the American South and the astonishing life she lived.’
REVIEW
For the last three days I have been thoroughly immersed in Sally, a biographical novel following the life of a black woman called Sally. Let me begin by saying how gripping Sally’s story is. Not only is the historical aspect of the novel interesting, but the setting and characters jump off the page. There is, I think, nothing better than a novel written by an author who knows how to balance setting, speech and plot.
But it is still the historical elements of the story that worked the best, from Sally’s life in slavery to the slow development of human rights. It is here that the author excels, showing off not only her flowing style of writing but also her knowledge of the time Sally lived in (1858 – 1969) and of her characters. I often find with historical novels, the author falls into the trap of bringing too many characters into the story which results in a confused reader and a watering down of the plot. Thankfully, this author did not do this, and the central characters were well developed and impossible to mix up.
The pacing of the story is also excellent. Many new authors tend to describe setting and characters in hefty lumps of text. But this can kill the pace of the story. Thankfully, this writer seems wise to this, cleverly mixing up speech and the describing of character and setting. Subsequently, the writing felt light and not at all like wading through cauliflower-cheese. And, where there is description, it is imaginatively written.
If I was to be critical, it is only to comment on the way the story jumps back and forth in time. Although this is an important plot device, is not handled particularly well, and, as a result, I was often a little confused as to who was talking – and, most importantly, when. But I suspect a good editor could find a remedy to this niggling problem.
All in all, this is a gem of a book. It is also hard-hitting, laying bare the history of the American South; a history of hatred, brutality and a white community refusing to change. There is the odd lighter moment; moments you can cheer on the indomitable spirit of Sally. But much of this story of white supremacy is sobering which, to be honest, is exactly how it should be.
Powerfully written and populated with well-developed characters, I would recommend this book to anybody interested in American history. Or to anybody who simply enjoys a gripping story.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
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