The Little Giant of Aberdeen County is a story of two sisters who are very different in many ways. Serena Jane was born first and is two years older than Truly. Serena Jane is the pretty and petite one that everyone adores. Truly is very different in appearance as she is oversized and plain and becomes the outcast. Truly becomes the heroine of the story and her spirit and strength grow in comparison to her physical size. The reader has no idea how large Truly really is and it is left up to the imagination in many respects. Truly is the narrator of the story and the story is told through her viewpoint after her mother died giving birth to her. Their father has trouble raising the girls and then they end up being seperated and living with two different families in town. The story unfolds as Truly and Serena Jane become adults and the paths that they are led down. I found myself rooting for Truly throughout her many challenges and often being in the position of the underdog. I didn't like some of her choices but she was often put into positions of defending and protecting those that she loved. Truly had a large heart to go along with her large size and she was very loyal to her friends and loved ones.
The story started out slow for me and I wasn't sure that I would like the book. I stuck with it and ended up not being able to put the book down and read it in two days. I felt a protectiveness toward Truly as she was someone who is different and not accepted because of it. She ended up being the strong one and was able to stand on her own and stick to her own beliefs and values. This is definitely a different and quirky tale and a very enjoyable one at that.
*Advance Reading Copy from Hachette.
This does sound like a quirky read but enjoyable all the same. It's on my list!
ReplyDeleteI had to force myself NOT to grab this book at my library yesterday!! It was a 14-day loan and I already have too many to read right now!! But, I liked your review and I know that I will read soon!! Sometimes it does pay off to stay with a book and now that I know it may start out slow but is rewarding in the end I'll be sure not to give up on it!!
ReplyDeleteI am very excited to read this and I'll remember not to let the slow start turn me off!
ReplyDeleteI chose not to request this book because I didn't think I would enjoy it, but boy has it been a hit. And, now to read that you enjoyed it, too - hmmmm. :)
ReplyDeleteThis is one of those books that draws you in. I'm so glad you liked it!
ReplyDeleteI really want to read this one. It sounds really good.
ReplyDeleteHi there.. Bonnie.. I really enjoy reading everyone's thoughts on this book. I loved the book. I think it started sort of slower paced, but it really drew me in It was easy to plow through this lovely book. :) Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteI read this book a few weeks ago and I felt the same ... a little slow and then could not put this down. I am now reading The Help and it is proving to be a must read. Love your blog.
ReplyDeleteGlad you liked this one too Bonnie. It was one of my favorites last year.
ReplyDeleteI had a hard time deciding how I felt about this one. It was a good read, despite my not finding Truly wholly likeable.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you stuck with it because it was a great book. I loved it from the beginning, and I can see it making my list of favorites for the year.
ReplyDelete--Anna
Diary of an Eccentric