"Kissing Tennessee" by Kathi Appelt is a heartfelt and poignant story that delves into themes of loss, friendship, and self-discovery. The novel follows the journey of a young girl named Desperado as she embarks on a road trip across Texas in search of her estranged mother. Throughout her adventure, Desperado encounters a diverse group of characters, including a talkative armadillo named Roach and a mysterious bullfrog oracle.
Appelt's writing style is lyrical and detailed, allowing readers to vividly imagine the Texas landscape and empathize with the emotions of the characters. The storytelling seamlessly combines elements of magical realism with realistic portrayals of human relationships. The bond between Desperado and Roach is particularly heartwarming and serves as a source of comfort and support for both characters.
The author explores sensitive subjects like grief and abandonment, illustrating their profound impact on Desperado's sense of self. Through her journey, Desperado learns valuable lessons about forgiveness, resilience, and the power of love. The book also delves into themes of identity and belonging as Desperado grapples with her Texan heritage and her longing for a connection with her mother.
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One of the standout aspects of "Kissing Tennessee" is its cast of well-developed and memorable characters. Each character brings their own unique personality and quirks to the story, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Appelt skillfully captures the intricacies of human relationships, showcasing how people can come together and support one another in times of adversity.
Overall, "Kissing Tennessee" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will captivate readers of all ages. With its heartfelt story, compelling characters, and themes of love and resilience, the book offers a powerful exploration of the human experience and the importance of meaningful connections.
What are readers saying?
"Kissing Tennessee" by Kathi Appelt is a heartwarming tale that explores the power of love, family, and friendship. Appelt's skill in creating memorable characters and intricate storylines is evident throughout the book. Reviews of the book showcase readers' appreciation for her storytelling abilities, offering a mix of praise and constructive criticism.
Readers were captivated by Appelt's beautiful writing style and felt a strong emotional connection to the characters. They praised her ability to evoke deep emotions and create a vivid sense of place. The exploration of family dynamics and the significance of love resonated with readers of all ages, making it a recommended read for both young adults and adults alike.
One common theme among the reviews is the book's unique blend of genres. "Kissing Tennessee" seamlessly combines elements of magical realism, coming-of-age, and mystery, providing a refreshing and engaging reading experience. This integration of genres kept readers invested and eager to uncover the various mysteries that unfold throughout the story.
Many reviewers commended Appelt for her strong character development. Readers found themselves rooting for the complex and relatable characters she created, from the young protagonist Sweet Jane to the enigmatic Tennessee. The diverse cast of characters and their intersecting journeys added depth to the narrative, further enhancing the readers' enjoyment of the book.
While a few reviewers mentioned occasional pacing issues, suggesting that tighter editing could have enhanced the story, overall, readers found themselves captivated by the narrative and satisfied with its resolution.
KissingTennesseeBook LoveStory ComingOfAge