I was surprised to find that Calling Me Home was a debut novel by Julie Kibler, not only is the story well written,the prose keeps the reader enthralled. But be warned, you will need to keep a box of tissues handy, especially nearing the end of the novel. Some of the story came to mind for Ms. Kibler, when she discovered some of her family's past which obviously adds to the heart-wrenching story of two people in love of different races.
This book is going on my list of favorites for this year.
From the cover:
Eighty-nine-year-old Isabelle McAllister has a favor to ask her hairdresser, Dorrie Curtis. It's a big one. Isabelle wants Dorrie to drop everything and driver her from her home in Texas to a funeral near Cincinnati. With no clear explanation why.
Dorrie, a black single mom fleeing problems of her own, wonders if she can unlock the mysteries of Isabelle's guarded past. She hardly hesitates before agreeing to Isabelle's request, never imagining it will be a journey that changes both their lives.
This would make a great book club read. Suggested discussion questions here.
