Customer Reviews

The Good Mother

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Reading any worthwhile novel we all tend to identify with at least one of its main characters, usually the protagonist, and in so doing we may here and there catch intriguing glimpses of the author's own personal reality. Perhaps more importantly for us, though, is that we also, now and then, gain new knowledge of unknown or long-forgotten aspects of our own inner selves and this is certainly what happened for me while reading Kathy M. Dixon's "The Good Mother". Whether in rural Oklahoma, or downtown Timbuktu, the manifest cruelty of children towards a perceived 'odd child out', and the long-suffering indifference and downright meanness of so many role-model adults, seems to be nothing less than par for the course and Ms Dixon's poignant story readily recalled from forgetfulness the troubled days of my own childhood. So, naturally enough, I quickly found myself empathising with Melanie and appreciating her need to escape into dreams of a good mother ever ready to protect and nurture. Yes, I thoroughly enjoyed Ms Dixon's novel, and as with any good book found it very easy to pick up but very hard to put down. I rate it 'tops'.

I have just finished reading "The Good Mother" by Kathy M. Dixon and I highly recommend it. Ms. Dixon has a gift for making her reader feel the emotions of the characters to their deepest level. The sights and sounds of a small town are very real as she depicts the community in which Melanie was brought up. Even the animals she encountered are the more endearing because you experience the deep affection she had for every living creature. As you watch this young girl develop into an

insecure woman your heart is torn because of the absolute hopelessness of her situation. At the same time, however, her inner strengths begin to shape her into a productive and happy adult. This is the story of unspeakable injustice to an innocent child and yet it is victorious in the fact that without even being aware of it, Melanie has depth and strength that she is totally unaware of. As you finish the last page you are cheering for the plans she has for the future. It is a story of difficulty, trial and hope. I give this a 5-Star rating. Luan Adams

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I wrote the first review for this book, but it seems I must edit it. I still think the book is wonderful. However, my earlier review makes it sound as though The Good Mother is autobiographical. It is not. The book is purely fiction. Kathy has molded most of the characters after some of our family members. Therefore, they are "true to Life." When I read the story, I can hear the same coloquialisms that I heard as a child, whenever I would visit certain relatives. That makes it even more colorful to me. Kathy has done a wonderful job telling a very moving story. It is a very good read.

Kathy has a colorful way with words. I know this author personally. While the setting and time was changed, every word of her novel is true. She uses vibrant, poignant descriptions of everything and everyone. The people her characters are modeled after are every bit as colorful and genuine as she writes them. How can I say that? Because they are my own family, and she is my favorite aunt. In parts you will cry, in other parts you will laugh yourself silly. Read the book. Get a glimpse of the true southern life in days gone by. It is wonderful. I love you, Kathy. Good Job.