I was over the moon about Ms. Finkbeiner’s first book, A Cup of Dust, so you can imagine how delighted I was to see the continuing story!
The worst of the Dust Bowl has passed and but the devastation that stands in its wake is overwhelming. The victims are not only dealing with this but also the Great Depression. I honestly do not see how they continued and hung on with so little left.
As if all Pearl and her family had not been through enough, a double tragedy strikes again but in an even more shattering way. The family is forced to leave Oklahoma and move to Michigan and start a new life. I was surprised at how sad they were to leave their home. With nothing left but miles of depressing landscape, it grieved them to leave. You would think they would be ready to go. I do understand Pearls sadness at leaving the family friend Millard. He was a constant and comforting part of her life for as long as she could remember. I had someone like that in my life as a child.
Once again the author captures living history. Not just the facts and details but through the eyes of those that lived it. I love that the story is written from a child’s viewpoint, now 11 year old Pearl Spence. The saying, “out of the mouth of babes”, comes to mind. Nothing is held back and her innocence and honesty paints a true picture.
Once again I love Pearl’s humor. Not that she was trying to be but the simple way a child see’s things and the quirky twist they put on it. I felt such warmth at the closeness of her family and the strong support. It made me happy that she’s has her friend Ray that the family has taken in. They have close bond, without all the boyfriend girlfriend stuff that goes on today with young kids. This book introduces the characters, Gus Seegert, her Dad’s cousin, and his wife Carrie. They generously and lovingly open their home and lives to give Pearl’s family a new start.
At the beginning of the book it gives a short recap of the previous one, so this could be read as a standalone. Trust me; you will want to read the first book as you will not want to miss out on anything! You are an amazing writer Ms. Finkbeiner! If I could give this book more stars I would!
I received a copy of this book free from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising