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Book Review of Fair and Tender Ladies

Fair and Tender Ladies
Fair and Tender Ladies
Author: Lee Smith
Genre: Literature & Fiction
Book Type: Paperback
Kmarie avatar reviewed on + 529 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4


I have just finished reading this amazing book and I am so tenderly moved. I want to grieve over losing Ivy, as her life came quietly to an end. No, her life itself wasn't quiet- it was far from it â" but I fell as though I have lost a friend. The fact that it is written in perfect Appalachian language (the book takes place within an hour of where I now live), helps make it even more authentic. This book, told entirely by letters written by Ivy Rowe, gives a true voice to the Appalachian life that exists still today. This is a wonderful book, rich and full, and I highly recommend it to anyone to read. A real piece of Americana and excellent writing. It made me laugh many times (I rarely laugh out loud while reading or listening), and I shed a tear or two as well. Lee Smith is from Grundy, VA (near my hometown), and I do hope one day to be able to meet her. She is a magnificent writer, in my opinion!