Read for: Reading Across the States Challenge & Requested Review
Synopsis: "Wade Summers wants nothing more than to go on his date tonight with high school hottie Glory Schoonover.
Unfortunately, a fierce February blizzard has blown in and a couple of first-time heifers are calving early. Way too early.
And Wade’s never delivered a calf all by himself before. (His grandfather was always there to show him the way).
Simmering under the teenage hormones and unexpected birthing is a conflicted son who finally confronts the abuse of his shady stepfather and a betrayal by his somewhat disengaged mother.
Kirkus Reviews called this coming-of-age story “An exciting, elegant debut.”
It’s rough around the edges, full of brute hardship, raw strength, and pure heart."
My Review: I received Calves in the Mud Room from the author in exchange for an honest review. I grew up around a similar setting, though not exactly the same as described in this story so it was very easy for me to settle into it and understand the hardships Wade faced. High school is a tough time for anyone but especially when shouldered with so many extra responsibilities. I really enjoyed this book and from this perspective. The voice comes through very strong and while the format isn't quite what I am used to reading (brief sentences and abrupt thought lines and paragraphs), it really suited the character and storyline.
Unfortunately, a fierce February blizzard has blown in and a couple of first-time heifers are calving early. Way too early.
And Wade’s never delivered a calf all by himself before. (His grandfather was always there to show him the way).
Simmering under the teenage hormones and unexpected birthing is a conflicted son who finally confronts the abuse of his shady stepfather and a betrayal by his somewhat disengaged mother.
Kirkus Reviews called this coming-of-age story “An exciting, elegant debut.”
It’s rough around the edges, full of brute hardship, raw strength, and pure heart."
My Review: I received Calves in the Mud Room from the author in exchange for an honest review. I grew up around a similar setting, though not exactly the same as described in this story so it was very easy for me to settle into it and understand the hardships Wade faced. High school is a tough time for anyone but especially when shouldered with so many extra responsibilities. I really enjoyed this book and from this perspective. The voice comes through very strong and while the format isn't quite what I am used to reading (brief sentences and abrupt thought lines and paragraphs), it really suited the character and storyline.
My Rating: This story packed quite a punch for me. It really took me back to my own roots and I hope it opens others eyes to the struggles of the ranching life combined with both normal teen struggles and family issues. I give this one a rating of Four Paws.
Calves in the Mud Room was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
You can find out more about Jerome O. Brown and his work on his Goodreads Page or Website.
You can obtain your own copy in digital or print format from Amazon or Barnes and Noble.
This one sounds deep. Almost too deep. I'm glad you enjoyed and related to it.
ReplyDeleteIt didn't seem deep at the time but now that you say that, the book does open eyes to some bigger issues other than simple teen issues.
Delete