Whistling Past the Graveyard Target Club Pick

WHISTLING PAST THE GRAVEYARD by Susan Crandall It’s the height of summer in Mississippi 1963. Nine year old, Starla Jane Claudelle (what a great name!), can’t seem to stay out of trouble or adhere to the strict rules of her grandmother. She decides to run away to find her mother in Nashville who she believes is a famous singer. I really loved Starla’s opinionated, sassy and precocious personality. She’s strong willed, impulsive and sometimes incorrigible, but her heart is in the right place. I laughed out loud at some of the snappy responses and thoughts Starla had throughout the book. Having Starla be the narrator for this story was brilliant as it showed the events of the time (segregation, Jim Crow, NAACP, JFK) through the eyes of someone who is innocent to the harsh realities and injustices of the world. Starla sees what the adults around her refuse to see. Her observations throughout the story are wise and on point. Eula and Starla’s bond was such a treasure. They faced their fears and helped each other throughout their rather eventful journey. I love how it all developed organically and gradually. Although parts of this were a little unbelievable, the overall spirit of the characters and themes of acceptance, found family and love made up for its few shortcomings. A heartwarming and poignant coming of age tale - highly recommend! Rating: 4/5 ⭐️

It was hard to put down

I don’t have words enough to tell you what a wonderful story this is. I loved every page. Highly recommend!!!!