I was born and raised in Alabama--reading the except certainly brought back very fond memories. This is the way I remember the folks I grew up with--talkative, kind, caring, friendly, always offering drink and food to anyone-even strangers. Fell in love with Dolly immediately; I knew so many people like her. I just know this will be a book I will probably read in one sitting--and then want to re-read. Good old Alabama folks for sure.