Favorite Parts of the Book?

One of my favorite moments in the book was when Mrs. Brown suggests to Bert that she call Mr. Brown and herself “Mama and Daddy.” Were there any parts of the book that were particularly special to you? If, so, which ones?

I was moved when Bert returned to Ashville with Lou and reunited with her sister. She was also told that her father didn’t blame her for her mother and baby brother's deaths which went a long way in healing her.

For whatever reason, I really liked the storyline of the games of marbles. The book discussed interesting facts and history about marbles that I never knew. I particularly enjoyed the storyline of the competitive games played between the people in town against the POWs.

There were so many sections I enjoyed. The descriptions and dialogue were so pitch perfect I felt as if I were part of the story not sitting at home reading it.
When Mrs. Brown speaks with Bert after the Frankie Tender incident she asks her “ but do you know what disappoints me most?… How little you love yourself.”
Aunt Fanniebelle and the Ouija board was also a favorite as well as anytime the story was set at Trula Freed’s home.

I liked the way the Brown family took Bert in and made her part of the family. She wasn't treated any differently than any of the other children in the family.

I liked the character of Trula Freed, the Brown's informal adoption of Bert, and - in particular- as another reader mentioned above, Mrs. Brown's wise counseling of Bert after the Frankie episode.

I just really loved the language of the book and how well it flowed. Bert's language seemed to reflect her vulnerability. She often tried to come off tough, but her language reminded me of how hurt and unconfident she really was.