My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This heart-warming book is well-written, clean, Christian, and quite uplifting. The book is a simple read, but it is truly powerful. The Christian and altruistic messages are very strong, encouraging, and clear. This book is something that will hearken back to a better time in our U.S., and it will inspire you to dare to dream that these old-fashioned values are possible in today’s technological, fast-paced, me-generation world. I honestly had no qualms with the writing of the story nor the obvious message.
You might be wondering why I only gave it a four-star rating. Well, I have read many “feel-good” stories over the years, and I believe that in order to be truly impactful, a bit of reality is compulsory. I realize that the economy has affected this town, and the men are banding together to get through the difficult times. But my complaint is that the story is sugary-sweet. I know that sounds almost counterintuitive because the story is positive and inspirational. But it seems that everyone was too good to be true. I was looking for “meat” that never materialized. When I read that the author was inspired by Andy Griffith, it all made sense. “Mayberrys” still exist–I know. But I just needed some more realism–just a personal preference. I can say that there are some distinct touching moments that were worth the read even if they were predictable.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
