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Threshing of Straw
A grandmother who only ever wanted to protect her two little girls. A mother who did the unthinkable years before. A father lost in his memories of the Korean War, and a daughter caught in the middle of it all. Georgia. Thanksgiving week. 1962.
MACEY MAY JOHNSON knows something isn’t right when her mama puts her alone on a bus to her grandma’s farm with strict instructions to wait to be picked up at the station. She’s only nine and has never been allowed to travel by herself before, but her daddy’s gone and the bills can’t be paid. And Macey May knows her family keeps secrets. She can feel it in her bones.
Her grandma keeps secrets from her mama. Her mama keeps secrets from her. Her daddy, well, he keeps them even from himself. And now Macey May has one of her own. A terrible secret. But which secrets are meant to be kept, and which ones are meant to be told?
MACEY MAY JOHNSON knows something isn’t right when her mama puts her alone on a bus to her grandma’s farm with strict instructions to wait to be picked up at the station. She’s only nine and has never been allowed to travel by herself before, but her daddy’s gone and the bills can’t be paid. And Macey May knows her family keeps secrets. She can feel it in her bones.
Her grandma keeps secrets from her mama. Her mama keeps secrets from her. Her daddy, well, he keeps them even from himself. And now Macey May has one of her own. A terrible secret. But which secrets are meant to be kept, and which ones are meant to be told?
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2021
1349 people are currently reading
2589 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
December 11, 2021
This is a compelling story of generational secrets that weave their way through a family of amazingly strong women until a night of tragedy and bravery. It is a story of redemption and forgiveness, of protection and betrayal, of grief and love. Meticulously researched, the writing is lyrical and places the reader solidly in the South in the 1950s and the 1960s. I want to go sit with Cora Lee, walk the farm with Otis, try some of Rose's baked goods, and visit with Denim and the animals. Full disclosure: I was an early reader of this novel and the author is a dear friend of mine. What a delight to see these characters I have known for years come to life in this novel I can now hold in my hands as a wonderful book.
June 6, 2022
This is a first time novel?? I’d have never guessed it. The author writes like a seasoned writer.
A little girls heads to her Grandmas house by herself on the bus. Her Daddy has been going away for work and not coming home as much as he used to. Her Momma has secrets and so does her Grandma.
This takes place in the 60s in the south.
I don’t want to say to much and give away any of the plot, but I loved this book and highly recommended it.
Looking forward to more by this talented new author!!
A little girls heads to her Grandmas house by herself on the bus. Her Daddy has been going away for work and not coming home as much as he used to. Her Momma has secrets and so does her Grandma.
This takes place in the 60s in the south.
I don’t want to say to much and give away any of the plot, but I loved this book and highly recommended it.
Looking forward to more by this talented new author!!
November 24, 2024
A book that gave me goose bumps
“Lies had only brought her family unnecessary pain. All these years she coulda understood her mother, rather than pushing her away.”
― Kim Catron, Threshing of Straw
This saga, historical fiction, and coming-of-age story was one of those hidden gems that I found through the Libby app. The book immediately grabbed my attention and held my interest from the start. Be forewarned that the child abuse and Civil Rights Movement is never a light topic. Hate crimes, mention of the KKK- this book has a sort of heaviness to it that takes you back in time. There is weight and pain and anguish that you feel while reading this book. No matter, through the heaviness, there is a light at the end of the tunnel! The story has flashbacks and family secrets that end up tying together in the end, like a snowball effect- where something starts small and builds on itself, becoming larger or more significant over time. Finally become too large to the point that it explodes or becomes too much.
Key Takeaways:
1. Most family secrets come to fruition in time. I can attest to this. Being truthful and honest to each other is the best thing we can do for our family members.
2. You also never know what someone may be going through. Even family may not know what each other are going through. Being honest can help for understanding and having a weight lifted from ones shoulders.
3. Children know more and are smarter than we adults realize.
See Booktok review here: [Tiktok account:
loveandothernonsense] (https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8LWN26j/)
“Lies had only brought her family unnecessary pain. All these years she coulda understood her mother, rather than pushing her away.”
― Kim Catron, Threshing of Straw
This saga, historical fiction, and coming-of-age story was one of those hidden gems that I found through the Libby app. The book immediately grabbed my attention and held my interest from the start. Be forewarned that the child abuse and Civil Rights Movement is never a light topic. Hate crimes, mention of the KKK- this book has a sort of heaviness to it that takes you back in time. There is weight and pain and anguish that you feel while reading this book. No matter, through the heaviness, there is a light at the end of the tunnel! The story has flashbacks and family secrets that end up tying together in the end, like a snowball effect- where something starts small and builds on itself, becoming larger or more significant over time. Finally become too large to the point that it explodes or becomes too much.
Key Takeaways:
1. Most family secrets come to fruition in time. I can attest to this. Being truthful and honest to each other is the best thing we can do for our family members.
2. You also never know what someone may be going through. Even family may not know what each other are going through. Being honest can help for understanding and having a weight lifted from ones shoulders.
3. Children know more and are smarter than we adults realize.
See Booktok review here: [Tiktok account:
loveandothernonsense] (https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8LWN26j/)
June 9, 2022
In 1962 Georgia, nine-year-old Macey Johnson is sent on a bus to stay with her grandmother. Everyone in the family has secrets, secrets kept from everyone else. The book is excellent, well-written, and filled with strong well-developed characters.
April 29, 2024
A nice story of a family hiding secrets to protect those they love. Or are they protecting them???
April 26, 2024
A good debut novel (set in Georgia in the early 1960's) about 9-year-old Macey Mae. Her family has lots of secrets and I enjoyed how the story unfolded.
December 16, 2021
This author and book were recommended to me by a friend and I am thrilled to have discovered this amazing writer. From the first sentence I was captivated and could not stop turning the pages. Kim Catron is a masterful story teller and delivers a powerful tale about love, sacrifice and the ramifications of keeping secrets no matter how honorable the intent.
The plot is solid, fast paced, and though both disturbing and difficult at times it is beyond compelling. The character development is superlative. Told from the point of view of the grandmother, Cora Lee, the mother, Rose, her husband, damaged Korean vet Curtis, and Macey May, the granddaughter forced to face the reality of life as a person of color in the early 60's Georgia, I felt like was I was seeing and experiencing their world, and experiencing their feelings through their eyes. I will miss these strong female characters and their courageous male counterparts. I was sad to reach the end. I can’t wait to see what story this author give us next. You don’t want to miss this fabulous read. I highly recommend.
The plot is solid, fast paced, and though both disturbing and difficult at times it is beyond compelling. The character development is superlative. Told from the point of view of the grandmother, Cora Lee, the mother, Rose, her husband, damaged Korean vet Curtis, and Macey May, the granddaughter forced to face the reality of life as a person of color in the early 60's Georgia, I felt like was I was seeing and experiencing their world, and experiencing their feelings through their eyes. I will miss these strong female characters and their courageous male counterparts. I was sad to reach the end. I can’t wait to see what story this author give us next. You don’t want to miss this fabulous read. I highly recommend.
February 15, 2023
A good story with lots of likable and unique characters. The author, not of the South or African American, wrote a well connected and interesting story from a POV unlike her own so cheers to having great insight and empathy. It was listed as historical fiction. I really did like or hate every character so thumbs up for characterization. Surprise and secrets are also abundant. Nice.
I think the title is not the best for this story in my opinion because not much is talked about that aspect of farming as related to life.
The story towards the end read like a Hallmark movie. Too much neatly tied up loose ends in a contrived way in my opinion.
Maybe more of the Klan’s activity or their POV would have made this less ‘Hallmarky.’ Inclusion of that topic would have made this novel more historically instructive & the reader would understand the fear of the characters more.
Question— since the little girl has a secret, will there be a modern day sequel with her children?
I think the title is not the best for this story in my opinion because not much is talked about that aspect of farming as related to life.
The story towards the end read like a Hallmark movie. Too much neatly tied up loose ends in a contrived way in my opinion.
Maybe more of the Klan’s activity or their POV would have made this less ‘Hallmarky.’ Inclusion of that topic would have made this novel more historically instructive & the reader would understand the fear of the characters more.
Question— since the little girl has a secret, will there be a modern day sequel with her children?
October 15, 2022
We all have secrets
We all have secrets and in this book, they all come to the surface very quickly. The story was brutal in some places and I wasn’t sure if anything could be resolved in a way where I wouldn’t feel beaten down but the author did a fair job with the resolutions.
We all have secrets and in this book, they all come to the surface very quickly. The story was brutal in some places and I wasn’t sure if anything could be resolved in a way where I wouldn’t feel beaten down but the author did a fair job with the resolutions.
November 15, 2025
Just finished listening to the audiobook version of this book. And I actually really liked the story, but I had to give it only 3 stars because of the narration. I think the narrator was trying to speak with a southern accent, but it really did not sound authentic. Her voice was kind of distracting & sometimes difficult to understand. Also, she didn't change her voice for any of the characters, they all sounded the same; women, men, older, younger. . .there was no differentiation that I could discern. And with this book's style of storytelling from multiple Points of view, I really had to pay attention to keep up with who was "speaking" as the story went along. I tried speeding up the playback & slowing it down, but neither helped. Aside from that, the story was interesting & well written with strong character development. Even as a white women in the 21st century, I really felt I could relate to these characters and if they were real people, I would really like to know them. . .well, most of them. There were difficult topics addressed (child abuse, mental health/PTSD, poverty, racism, and family relationships) all done with tact and respectfulness. So, I would recommend this book, with the caveat of maybe reading the print or ebook version. I hope that the author/publisher chooses a different narrator for any future books!
November 25, 2023
This story was so beautifully written. I loved the vivid portrayals of the characters and the generational secrets they buried. In addition, the plot points kept me reading quickly through to the end. The novel has layers of complexity. It would be worth your while to pick it up and transport yourself to to Georgia in the 60s. What a stunning first novel by Kim Catron!
May 4, 2023
My favorite book of the year so far!! Each character was dynamic and so well-written and this author is such an incredible storyteller. I can’t believe it’s not more popular
October 26, 2022
excellent story
Loved this book. I tried to read it in one sitting but Life wouldn’t let me. I read every chance I got.
I don’t know how to write a review without creating spoilers, but I will try. There are 2 main storylines, with a couple sub-stories or “surprises” and thankfully, all are wrapped up by the end of the book. The characters are all quite loveable, and the day to day of their lives is clearly described.
There were, however, some rookie mistakes made with language, mostly switching synonyms, which drove me crazy!!! There were also some typos that took away from the book’s professionalism. I didn’t take any stars off the rating, because the rest of the book was so good, particularly character development.
I’m impressed that the author wrote about a subgroup of people she likely has little in common with, and that she did it so well. She also appears to be historically accurate.
Loved this book. I tried to read it in one sitting but Life wouldn’t let me. I read every chance I got.
I don’t know how to write a review without creating spoilers, but I will try. There are 2 main storylines, with a couple sub-stories or “surprises” and thankfully, all are wrapped up by the end of the book. The characters are all quite loveable, and the day to day of their lives is clearly described.
There were, however, some rookie mistakes made with language, mostly switching synonyms, which drove me crazy!!! There were also some typos that took away from the book’s professionalism. I didn’t take any stars off the rating, because the rest of the book was so good, particularly character development.
I’m impressed that the author wrote about a subgroup of people she likely has little in common with, and that she did it so well. She also appears to be historically accurate.
April 9, 2022
It’s not everyday you hear your best friend’s mom wrote a book… this book tells the tale between a family with many secrets. The story is layered with details that come into action when the plot of the book picks up towards chapter 18 out of 25.
March 31, 2023
I can't read another book in which a child is hurt. On top of the racism and the rambling, inconclusive jumping around from speaker to speaker and times to times, and place to place, I had to just put down. The author wrote well, but I couldn't stay focused after the initial incident.
January 8, 2022
A story of a family whose generations of lies and secrets, even for the best of intentions, lead to heartache, hardship and a tumultuous ending. You will care about the members of this family!
July 18, 2022
Breathtaking
Get a box of tissue for the last 50 pages! Such a great story, and very well written. I may read this one again 💜
Get a box of tissue for the last 50 pages! Such a great story, and very well written. I may read this one again 💜
November 3, 2024
Thid book iss a powerful exploration of race, identity, and the struggles of the 1960s in America. While at times painful to read, especially given the weight of the racial tensions and historical backdrop, this novel is an incredibly moving journey. The author’s skill in character development is remarkable; each character feels deeply real, as if they are people you have known or could know. Their lives and secrets unravel with such precision that, when everything is laid bare, it’s impossible not to feel heartbroken for them all. This book brings the struggles and resilience of its characters to life, making it an unforgettable read that stays with you long after you’ve finished.
February 25, 2023
Loved Macey May
I was drawn into the story immediately by the character of Macey May, a young innocent girl living in the 1960s. Her life seems pretty normal until she arrives at her grandma's hometown and has to wait alone at the bus station. Then everything changes and the story of the secrets a family keeps and the affect the secrets have on everyone's lives begins to unfold. I really enjoyed the story, the characters and the writing.
I was drawn into the story immediately by the character of Macey May, a young innocent girl living in the 1960s. Her life seems pretty normal until she arrives at her grandma's hometown and has to wait alone at the bus station. Then everything changes and the story of the secrets a family keeps and the affect the secrets have on everyone's lives begins to unfold. I really enjoyed the story, the characters and the writing.
January 29, 2024
What did I just read?? Omg…. The secrets, the baby, the racism how incredibly sad this book was. But it was so good. I relate to this story so much. With my daughter, her daughter and who she believes her daughter’s dad is now no longer being with us. He was murdered a few months ago in a murder suicide. Ohhhh this book will forever be a top favorite.
November 6, 2024
6 out of 5 stars for this book! This is one of the best books I have ever read!!!! By the second page of the book I was already impressed by the high caliber of the writing--beautiful. The stellar way in which the author weaved the story had me completely captivated. The numerous secrets the characters were keeping and the ways in which these secrets were revealed to the reader were superb. For the last 50% of the book I was either sitting with my mouth agape or clapping my hands to my cheeks in utter shock, lol! Threshing of Straw has swiftly become my favorite historical fiction novel.
February 14, 2025
This book caught me by surprise. It is very well written and addresses so many important issues that take place in an era of American history I am not proud of, but they need to be remembered and brought to light. The truth all unravels in the end… except for that one secret too terrible to be told. It’s one of those books that will stay with me for a while, but I’m so glad I read it.
July 9, 2023
What a wonderful book! Such a sad story, but brought together in such beautiful ways! I loved all of the main characters and their stories were so heartfelt and beautiful. Found myself tearing up at the end which is rare for me! Another kindle unlimited treasure!!
January 15, 2023
If your looking for a great book about family,love, and secrets this book is for you. This book was so heart touching about times where inner racial marriage was not allowed but your heart knows what your heart wants. There were so many emotions threw this book.
I give this book a 4.5/5. Definitely a good read.
I give this book a 4.5/5. Definitely a good read.
February 18, 2023
Do we ever really know all the secrets inside someone? Even those closest to us sometimes hold starting revelations. The book explores this and how telling the most traumatic secrets leads to a freedom and deepens ties more than our fear that prevents us from sharing the truth.
June 20, 2023
Amazing book and I almost stopped reading it. I didn't want to read about the topic I thought was being presented but I made myself keep going. Wonderful book. It will be a classic.
I am a little concerned that there were no PTSD type warning in the beginning for child abuse and PTSD caused by war. Both can be traumatic for those who suffer with PTSD.
I put this book on my favorites list. It is very well written and kept me wanting to go to bed early so I could read.
I am a little concerned that there were no PTSD type warning in the beginning for child abuse and PTSD caused by war. Both can be traumatic for those who suffer with PTSD.
I put this book on my favorites list. It is very well written and kept me wanting to go to bed early so I could read.
March 2, 2024
A variety of point of views tell this fictional story set mostly in 1962. I think I would have liked the story more if it wasn’t always switching. It however did lead to a satisfying ending, and made me think about the book’s title. Macey Mae was my favorite character. She was so sweet, innocent, and brave.
I hope the author writes more books!
I hope the author writes more books!
August 1, 2022
Threshing of Straw
I gave this book 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. It was well written and the characters were very interesting. It also had a interesting plot and it also kept me engaged.
I gave this book 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. It was well written and the characters were very interesting. It also had a interesting plot and it also kept me engaged.
July 28, 2022
I loved this. Great character build up, plot twists, well written
January 20, 2023
worth a read
I'd say this was a decent book overall. The ending was a little hokie. I liked the way they told the story from multiple perspectives but there was no confusion about whose voice it was. This book deals with racism so make sure to have your tissues ready and to get a little angry. It was an enjoyable read despite the subject matter.
I'd say this was a decent book overall. The ending was a little hokie. I liked the way they told the story from multiple perspectives but there was no confusion about whose voice it was. This book deals with racism so make sure to have your tissues ready and to get a little angry. It was an enjoyable read despite the subject matter.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews