South of Broad

I'm glad I didn't read the reviews first; this handily entered my list of top 10 favorite books in my 5.5 decade life span.

I suspect it's because I related so much to many of the plot points and characters. I grew up in the south, modest family income, and lacking the beguiling looks or athletic ability that brought the right kind of attention. Instead, I was “tender hearted” as we would say, pudgy, book smart, never had the right brand of shirt / pants / shoes or jacket to satisfy the social shot-callers, and painfully shy. I also had parents who loved me deeply, but also struggled to express at times.

As a result, I relate to the main character, from the derogatory nickname to the blessing of finding a few “misfits” like yourself to not only weather the schools but also overcome. Like the story itself, I lost a few of those friends along the way. Not in as spectacular fashion, but with the same impact as the main character experienced.

So, if you can identify with any of the above, push past these reviews and give it a try. As for me, this will go in my childhood cache of meaningful memories and possessions that perplexes the “normal” people. ;)