Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate is a captivating and heart-wrenching novel that tells the story of the real-life scandal involving the Tennessee Children’s Home Society. This gripping tale is a blend of historical fiction and contemporary drama, weaving together the lives of two families separated by decades but connected by a dark secret.
The novel is centered around the character of Rill Foss, a twelve-year-old girl living on a Mississippi River shantyboat with her four younger siblings. Their lives are turned upside down when they are taken from their family home and placed in the Tennessee Children’s Home Society, a corrupt orphanage run by the cruel and manipulative Georgia Tann. As Rill fights to keep her siblings together and reunite with her parents, she uncovers the shocking truth behind the orphanage’s operations.
Wingate’s writing is both lyrical and poignant, drawing readers into the lives of Rill and the other characters in the story. The dual narrative structure of the novel, alternating between Rill’s story in the 1930s and the present-day perspective of Avery Stafford, a successful lawyer grappling with her own family secrets, adds depth and complexity to the plot.
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate shines a light on a dark chapter in American history, exploring themes of family, identity, and the enduring power of love. Wingate’s meticulous research and attention to detail bring the story to life, immersing readers in the harsh realities faced by children caught up in the Tennessee Children’s Home Society scandal.
Overall, Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate is a powerful and moving novel that will tug at your heartstrings and stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. With its compelling storytelling, richly drawn characters, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and family sagas.
So, if you’re looking for a book that will transport you to another time and place, Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate is the perfect choice. Pick up a copy today and prepare to be swept away by this unforgettable story of love, loss, and the enduring bonds of family.