I look forward to reading Susie Finkbeiner's novels because I know they will transport me to another time in history. Her writing style, which is deceptively simple and very thought-provoking, shines in her latest book The All-American. The story originated when Ms. Finkbeiner imagined combining one of the most American activities (baseball) with something very unAmerican (Communism).
This Cold War Era coming-of-age story is set in 1952 in a Detroit suburb and features the Harding family, specifically 11-year-old Flossie who loves books and 16-year-old Bertha who'd much rather play baseball than assume the traditional roles of women in her era. The chapters alternate from their points of view and reflect their ages and personalities. When their father, a writer, is accused of engaging in Communist activities, the implications impact the entire family.
The author immerses readers in the history of time and place by weaving facts into the lives of genuine characters you'd meet in any small Midwestern town. It was so interesting to learn about the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (think A League of Their Own) as well as McCarthyism. There's also a plot thread about a librarian who refuses to engage in book banning, which is sadly relevant today. Bits of humor and elements of faith help readers move through a plot that deals with heavy topics.
Thank you to Revell and NetGalley for the review copy of this novel.
This Cold War Era coming-of-age story is set in 1952 in a Detroit suburb and features the Harding family, specifically 11-year-old Flossie who loves books and 16-year-old Bertha who'd much rather play baseball than assume the traditional roles of women in her era. The chapters alternate from their points of view and reflect their ages and personalities. When their father, a writer, is accused of engaging in Communist activities, the implications impact the entire family.
The author immerses readers in the history of time and place by weaving facts into the lives of genuine characters you'd meet in any small Midwestern town. It was so interesting to learn about the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (think A League of Their Own) as well as McCarthyism. There's also a plot thread about a librarian who refuses to engage in book banning, which is sadly relevant today. Bits of humor and elements of faith help readers move through a plot that deals with heavy topics.
Thank you to Revell and NetGalley for the review copy of this novel.
