Missing Isaac is a coming of age and slice of life story centered around Pete in Glory, Alabama in the 1960's. When Pete's father dies, we see Pete establish a relationship with his father's right hand man and friend, Isaac. Isaac helps Pete through his grief with fishing and listening, as well as visit the man's family and friends.
When Isaac goes missing, Pete and Daddy Ballard (his granddad) are convinced things are not what the sheriff thinks. Pete decides one day to look for Isaac's body. He meets a young girl who helps when he gets into trouble. Dovey becomes part of his life.
Daddy Ballard picking up the search for Issac rides in the background as we watch Pete and Dovey mature. The loss of Isaac is the catalyst for the rest of the story. Yet, this story is not just about Pete but a set of characters as they grow in a world struggling with change. This community of people trying to make the best of the times are not perfect. It's their effort and willingness to change and choosing to be better that gives this book heart.
Valerie Fraser Luesse's characterizations and simple descriptions were echoes from the past. You can understand once you realize she used oral history for most of her research. I could have read more stories from these characters. They show us change is possible.
Thank you to the publisher and Bookish for providing me with an advanced copy of this book.
When Isaac goes missing, Pete and Daddy Ballard (his granddad) are convinced things are not what the sheriff thinks. Pete decides one day to look for Isaac's body. He meets a young girl who helps when he gets into trouble. Dovey becomes part of his life.
Daddy Ballard picking up the search for Issac rides in the background as we watch Pete and Dovey mature. The loss of Isaac is the catalyst for the rest of the story. Yet, this story is not just about Pete but a set of characters as they grow in a world struggling with change. This community of people trying to make the best of the times are not perfect. It's their effort and willingness to change and choosing to be better that gives this book heart.
Valerie Fraser Luesse's characterizations and simple descriptions were echoes from the past. You can understand once you realize she used oral history for most of her research. I could have read more stories from these characters. They show us change is possible.
Thank you to the publisher and Bookish for providing me with an advanced copy of this book.