Truth and redemption
Two boys, one black and one white, are friends for a brief time in rural Mississippi. A few years later, the white boy is suspected of killing a girl, and although there is not enough evidence to prosecute him, he is marked forever by suspicion. The black boy goes to college and returns to the area as a constable, and the lives of the two boys - now men - intersect again in the investigation of another murder. But as the story unfolds, there are revelations and discoveries that put long-ago events into new light. The past is never really past because it has shaped everything that has happened since. The suspense is mild, the mysteries transparent, the ending too glib, but it's a good story about truth and redemption, with complex and interesting characters.
Rated of 5
by Karen L. (Troy, IL)
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter
Fast read with great characters. The author had me wanting to know more about the two boys from different ethnic backgrounds. Interesting to note that it was an ethnic reversal of sorts from what you usually see in this type of story line. Enjoyed the book and am recommending it to my book club for a future selection.
Rated of 5
by Carol N. (Indian Springs VIllage, AL)
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter
Reading this book took me back to my own youth in rural south Mississippi during the 1970's. So much of the book rang true, and I remember the kids who were considered as 'strange' because they were not like everyone else. At times I felt a little confused because of the abrupt switching between the time frames but I did enjoy the central story of the murders.
Rated of 5
by Jane H. (Owensboro, KY)
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter
The clever title drew me to request this book and I was happy I received it. I found the overall story absorbing and unique. I think whoever edited this story will keep it from being a huge hit. The first 100 pages of the book were sloppily edited ... maybe with a view to "the art" of the book rather than keeping to what was clearly a compelling story on its own. I ALWAYS finish a book, no matter what the contents, and that's all that kept me wading through the hodgepodge at the beginning. If the reader can hold on and make it that far, the book takes off with an intoxicating Southern murder mystery and is well worth the read.
[Editor's note: BookBrowse member-reviewers received an advanced readers copy of Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter to review. ARCs are produced some months before publication before the final editing process has been completed, so some of the issues Jane found with the opening pages may not be present in the finished book.]
Rated of 5
by Julie H. (Pine Grove, PA)
Quick Read
Nicely drawn story about the relationship between two boys that grow into men in the deep south. The mystery was somewhat predictable in its ending, but it was a quick, enjoyable read.
Rated of 5
by Laura A. (Jeremiah, KY)
Interesting Novel
I enjoyed "Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter" by Tom Franklin. It was an interesting look at the relationship between a young white boy and a young black boy in Mississippi in a different time. It has some surprises that I didn't see coming. Definitely makes you think about how relationships with others affect our lives long term and what our responsibilities to others are.
Rated of 5
by Theresa R. (SIERRA MADRE, CA)
Good Book
I found this to be an easy read and quite enjoyable. The author writes in a way that gets you involved in the story right away and makes you want to know what's going to happen next. I think this would be a great book club choice as it would bring about some good discussions.
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by Minnesota Reader
