*EDITED: My friend had told me about this book and for some reason she had mentioned that it was on Oprah’s book list. However, she was mistaken in the fact. Nevertheless, I usually avoid books on that list. Not because they are bad or anything but rather because I find that they all have the same general theme on racism and are always heart-wrenching sob stories. But I decided to try this one for a change.
When Ibby’s father dies in 1964, her mother dumps her with her eccentric grandmother, Fannie. Scared and alone, Ibby has no idea what to make of her new home – and her formidable and insane grandmother. Lucky for Ibby that
Fanny’s black cook, Queenie, and her daughter, Dollbaby, are there to help! Because there is a lot more than eccentricity that is lurking in the shadows of this house.
I really liked this book! I’m actually so surprised that I did because I had expected it to be one more book on racism (which are important in their own right). But there was so much to this novel other than that. There was scandal and death and murder and … Well you have to read it to really find out! I loved every aspect of it and all of the hidden stories were just so wonderfully revealed! I would definitely give this book a try and I urge you all to do so!
Happy reading ~
Was it on Oprah’s Book List? I’d love to know. It’s the first I’ve heard of it! In any case thank you for your kind words. Dollbaby is not about race , as you mentioned, but about love, foregiveness and family bonds. And about New Orleans in the 1960’s where change was inevitable.
Laura Lane McNeal.
It was actually NOT on the list; my friend has mistakenly told me it was and I had believed her. After reading the novel, however, it definitely should be! Thank you so much for taking the time to read this review. It was an incredible story to read and I cannot wait to read more by you!