The Dry Grass of August is written in the tradition of Southern fiction, including the emphasis on food. I loved the descriptions of the meals in this book. Food is depicted as a source of pleasure and community. In particular, I like June's description of her disappointing meal at the diner (gluey spaghetti and meatballs) as compared to the delicious lunch at the beach (sandwiches, fresh tomatoes with salt/pepper, etc).

Did anyone else notice the food in the book?

I remember craving fried chicken after reading Jubie's description of a meal that Mary prepared! I grew up in the South eating fried chicken every week, and even though I never eat it anymore, I can still remember how wonderful my Grandmother's fried chicken was!

I remember growing up as a kid and what a rare treat it was to eat out anywhere. It just was not the thing to do. Fried chicken was a Sunday staple in my house. I, too, grew up in the South and have returned to live there again after a 35 year hiatus. I kept thinking Mary was probably a very good cook.

I moved to Georgia from California and life definitely revolves around food here! I also come from a Jewish culture which also centers on food. But in California food was not the focus of everything like it is here in Georgia.