Jennifer J

The story was a bit difficult to follow in the beginning, as I familiarized myself with the main characters. I enjoyed the mix of fact and fiction. The author did an excellent job of describing the generational and cultural nuances interwoven throughout Savannah society. I was advised to read it as if the city of Savannah was telling the story, which helped immensely. The story builds with excitement, but fell a bit flat at the end, leaving out what would have been the most interesting chapter of the book. I recommend reading the historical notes in the back of the book prior to reading the book. Some of the facts would have been more effective as a prologue. Overall, an enjoyable read, particularly if you are familiar with Savannah.

"The Days When Birds Come Back" by Deborah Reed is a raw view into the lives of two people shaped by tragedy and grief. Just like the hazy, drunken binges June hoped to leave behind in Ireland, I felt as if I was drowning in Reed's descriptive, sorrowful narrative in the beginning of this book, unsure of the direction I was headed and grasping wildly for a plot. I hastily read chapter after chapter in hopes that the story would develop and lure me into Reed's tale. Somewhere around chapter 9 this occurred, and I was glad that I had persisted. Reed writes of the aftermath of tragedy and the struggle of those left with shattered lives. This book poignantly follows grief as it chases the characters far away and back home again, until ultimately they must confront the pain and letting go of what was. I found myself wanting a few more chapters at the end to see what lie ahead, always the sign of a satisfying read.