"I love the way Sheila writes. When I read her books, I thoroughly enjoy the feeling of being a part of the community of characters. In this novel, we experience through Maxine's coming-of-age story set during the Dust Bowl, what it is like to outgrow childhood and realize the world isn't tidy. This beautiful story about growing up when the world doesn't give you easy answers is thoughtful, immersive, and beautifully written." --Ginny Yurich, CEO/Founder of 1000 Hours Outside
Freeda Mae swore that awful year was set in motion by the snake that crossed our path. Deanne and Cleo said that was nonsense. Momma said it was on account of that good-for-nothing Floyd Bowman. Daddy blamed Grandfather Tollett, and Grandfather blamed Daddy's gambling. To be honest, I thought it was my fault for keeping too many secrets. Thinking back on it now, maybe it was the Depression that started it all.
Maxine is coming of age as dust storms roll across the plains and the Great Depression grips the nation. When she overhears a banker threaten to take the family farm, she starts collecting secrets like stones and finds that the world of adults is more complicated than she expected. Gambling could cost them the farm, but it also keeps food on the table. Farmers are deep in debt, but the bank lends them money to plant more wheat. Her classmates are hungry, but the community can't agree on charity's role in their lives. Maxine must emerge from childhood with the courage to face uncertainty and the wisdom not to do it alone.
Where Flowers Once Grew is about family stories, the ones we inherit, the ones we protect, and the ones that shape us. Told with Quinn's signature warmth, it is a testament to the power of faith and community.
