Status
Available
Call number
Collection
Call number
F SPR
Publication
Revell (2020), Edition: 5/1, 256 pages
Description
"After the death of her mother, Worri Dressar takes on the care of orphans near their Appalachian mountain home. Plagued with two good-for-nothing brothers, Worri fights to save her home and the children now in her care"--
User reviews
LibraryThing member wearylibrarian
The is book had me hooked from the beginning. Worie is a strong young Appalachian woman. She loves her no-good brothers but they are...well, no good, no count. I felt like I’d been visiting ‘down home’ as as I read and fought beside Worie as she tried to care for orphaned children and
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fighting her brother Calvin in order to keep the only home she’s ever known. Show Less
LibraryThing member thedeffenbaughs6
This was my first book by Cindy K. Sproles and I think that her knowledge of the Appalachian Mountain and its people shines through and her faith as well.
This was a hard read for me especially since this is not the type of book I would normally gravitate to. It is a very emotional book and it has
That being said the main character Worri has had a hard life she loses her mother, her home and security during the Influenza outbreak in the mountains but she overcomes it and at the end her faith is stronger and sees thing in a different light.
This is not a romance book but it focuses on God's love and the love you have towards family.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a hard read for me especially since this is not the type of book I would normally gravitate to. It is a very emotional book and it has
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emotional triggers to suicide which I found hard because its right at the start of the story and honestly it was a bit unexpected the way it was introduced. It was also very difficult for me to get into the character. Sproles does a great job at narrating the story from the eyes of Worri an Appalachian mountain girl so her words tend to be simple and uneducated which was very hard for me to get past. That being said the main character Worri has had a hard life she loses her mother, her home and security during the Influenza outbreak in the mountains but she overcomes it and at the end her faith is stronger and sees thing in a different light.
This is not a romance book but it focuses on God's love and the love you have towards family.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member milliebeverly
I received this book through a Librarything.com Early Reviewers giveaway. It set in the Tennessee Appalachians in 1877. Worie Dresser is thrust into an adult role when her mother dies. She finds out her mother had been feeding orphans, and willingly carries on this ministry. She has much to cope
==
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with as she tries to keep everyone alive in this impoverished part of the world. It's a good book. I live in the south, but I didn't like the way the dialect was portrayed. It seemed to be a cross between correct pronunciation and dialect. For instance, a Southerner typically pronounces "nothing" as "nuthin' ", and it is usually spelled that way when the writer uses dialect, but in the book it is spelled "nothin". A minor complaint, but it was distracting to me. ==
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LibraryThing member TABrowne
Overall a great book. I find the history of the Appalachian mountain area interesting so I was looking forward to this book. I would've liked even more of the history in it. While Worri is a good woman, she was difficult to like and I struggled with that. Also, I couldn't figure out if they were
I am a Christian who tries to walk with God in my daily life and this book was a great reminder of God's presence but was maybe a little more in your face then I would've preferred. I worry that it would turn off someone who is just dabbling in Christian fiction.
I did find the story engaging and read it within an afternoon and a little bit the next morning. If the weather hadn't enticed me out to garden I would've finished in a day as I really wanted to know what all was going on and hoping to see her brother get his due.
If you like Christian fiction with some adventure and mystery you will like this book. It is not a romance book but does talk about the love of families and God.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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trying to make a love interest for her? Maybe if they do a second book.I am a Christian who tries to walk with God in my daily life and this book was a great reminder of God's presence but was maybe a little more in your face then I would've preferred. I worry that it would turn off someone who is just dabbling in Christian fiction.
I did find the story engaging and read it within an afternoon and a little bit the next morning. If the weather hadn't enticed me out to garden I would've finished in a day as I really wanted to know what all was going on and hoping to see her brother get his due.
If you like Christian fiction with some adventure and mystery you will like this book. It is not a romance book but does talk about the love of families and God.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member NancyLuebke
I sort of enjoyed this story of way of life in the mountains and the hard times of living there. People were dying everywhere from a fever, sort of like now only there was no one to save the children after the parents died. Not a real fan of books like this written in the uneducated slang of the
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people there. But I understood it enough to understand the story. It was interesting, and the tale made vague pictures of the hard life. Made me more grateful of modern things like bathrooms even if we have a hard time finding toilet paper. I received this story for free and I voluntarily chose to review it. I gave it a 4.5* rating. (less) Show Less
LibraryThing member alekee
The title the author gives this book is so appropriate, and the legacy that Mama leaves is such a blessing. What a hard time, and a young woman is left with so many decisions, but she sure doesn't have second thoughts about helping the children.
We often hear about children raised by the same
The story is told with words that would be used in the mountains, and people with so little are there to literally give you the shirt off their back.
There is a great deal of injustice that happens in this story, and greed shows its ugly head, but there is also a great love of the Lord, and a hard to do theme of Forgiveness.
This book is a blessing, we need to count ours and this story should help you appreciate all that we have, and maybe appreciate all our blessings.
I also love that the story included an epilogue, and we are given closure!
I received this book through LibraryThing, and was not required to give a positive review.
We often hear about children raised by the same
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parents turning out different, and here we have a great example, and soon find out that secrets hurt!The story is told with words that would be used in the mountains, and people with so little are there to literally give you the shirt off their back.
There is a great deal of injustice that happens in this story, and greed shows its ugly head, but there is also a great love of the Lord, and a hard to do theme of Forgiveness.
This book is a blessing, we need to count ours and this story should help you appreciate all that we have, and maybe appreciate all our blessings.
I also love that the story included an epilogue, and we are given closure!
I received this book through LibraryThing, and was not required to give a positive review.
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LibraryThing member Sonja.Hoeke.Nish7358
Page 1 begins with drama! And the drama never stops. Worie Dressar is a 17 year old who finds herself in a unexpected parental role. The story unfolds in 1877 in the Appalachian mountains. Life was still very rough and rugged. Worie's mother had been feeding children whose parents died of a fever
I loved how the character of Worie's language denotes the language of the mountain people, making it easy to visualize the time and place she was living in. It's written in the first person of Worie, so a lot of the language in the book portrays this.
This is the second book that I have read from life in these mountains and the first book by this author. I am certain I will be reading more. The book is believable, and tragic. A book that touches on the orphan trains that were also a part of that historical period. The heroine is a strong-willed young woman whose determination does not give up on what she decides to do.
It is a book worth your time to read and will you feeling full of emotions. Loved this book.
I received a copy of this book from Revell publishing. All thoughts are my own.
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that was raging in their area. Kind of reminds you of the Covid days we are experiencing as well.I loved how the character of Worie's language denotes the language of the mountain people, making it easy to visualize the time and place she was living in. It's written in the first person of Worie, so a lot of the language in the book portrays this.
This is the second book that I have read from life in these mountains and the first book by this author. I am certain I will be reading more. The book is believable, and tragic. A book that touches on the orphan trains that were also a part of that historical period. The heroine is a strong-willed young woman whose determination does not give up on what she decides to do.
It is a book worth your time to read and will you feeling full of emotions. Loved this book.
I received a copy of this book from Revell publishing. All thoughts are my own.
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LibraryThing member ecataldi
Worie is going to have to learn to fend for herself quick. She's 17, unmarried, and her mother has just killed herself. Her father is dead, one brother is a drunk and in jail, and the other brother is an evil snake. She's going to have to learn how to take of herself and her small house and plot of
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land in the Appalachian mountain community. She soon realizes that some may have it worse than her. As typhoid and the influenza spread through the mountains many children are left orphaned and starving. Worie may be the only person capable and willing to take them under her wing. She at least has reliable neighbors who can help out; but when one of her good for nothing brothers comes storming back into the picture things are about to become even more complicated. Fans of inspirational historical fiction will enjoy this unique look into the hard living of mountain people and their unwavering faith amidst unbelievable tragedies. Show Less
LibraryThing member delphimo
During the current pandemic in the United States, the hardship of the Tennessee mountains during the 1870’s reminds readers that we still have a better life. Cindy K Sproles conveys a sense of the everyday hardship of the influenza epidemic and the unshaking belief in God. Worri Dressar loses her
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mother, her home, and security during the outbreak of influenza in the mountains. She inherits four homeless orphans and two troublesome brothers. At 17-years-old, Worri must care for this motley crew of survivors. Cindy K Sproles narrates the story from the eyes of Worri, who questions this dilemma. Worri’s words are simple and uneducated, but strong in the wisdom of survival and in God’s plan. Show Less
LibraryThing member Virginia51
I love reading stories about the folks in the Appalachian mountains. This book did not disappoint. I did not want to put this book down. I cried a lot throughout this book. Worse is a great character. She had some problems but she works these out. You root for her at all times. This was the first
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book I read by this author and I hope it will not be my last. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will. Show Less
LibraryThing member gincam
Set in the Tennessee mountains of the late 1800's, "What Momma Left Behind" is a poignant tale of heartache, hardship, and survival against staggering odds from poverty, disease, and family strife. With gritty detail and dialogue of the time and place, author Cindy K. Sproles paints a vivid picture
Book Copy Gratis Revell Books
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of life in Appalachia in a time when typhoid and influenza decimated the population, leaving behind many orphaned children and widowed adults, leading to a great number of "blended" families and incalculable displaced persons. At age 17, Worie Dressar's world was forever changed by the unexpected death of her mother. Unable to depend on her two troublesome brothers after her father passed away, Worie had given up her personal hopes for the future to stay and help her mother. Now that her mother was gone, Worie began to discover that her mother had been secretly feeding a number of orphaned children in the area of their home on Sourwood Mountain. With her own small means and conflicts with her brothers, how was Worie to care for an increasing number of orphaned children? Drawing on inner strength and a growing faith, Worie receives help from the local pastor and a few family friends. She comes to deeply love all the children and thinks of them as her own--their welfare is of great importance to her. As time passes, circumstances continue to change in ways that Worie had never imagined. The secrets and wisdom that her Momma left behind will all come full circle, and finally there is hope and ultimate healing faith. Book Copy Gratis Revell Books
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LibraryThing member hobbitprincess
Overall, I would say this book is ok. I enjoyed the setting, as I love the Appalachian Mountains and am very familiar with the people and culture. The plot was ok, although I thought there was almost too much crammed into the book. I did not think that the plot line involving the family dynamics
The main thing that bothered me about the book, however, was the dialect. It was tedious after awhile and detracted from the story. I understand the novel is told in first person, and I have heard much of that dialect from family, but reading it gets somewhat testy after a while, especially all the dropped Gs at the end of words. Worri's mother was said to be educated, yet she wrote in dialect, which is something I don't think she would have done.
I appreciated the message of the book, but I found it hard to stick with the book because of these things.
**I received a free copy of this book from LibraryThing's Early Reviewers program in exchange for an honest review.**
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drew away from what the main character Worie had to handle and how she chose to handle it.The main thing that bothered me about the book, however, was the dialect. It was tedious after awhile and detracted from the story. I understand the novel is told in first person, and I have heard much of that dialect from family, but reading it gets somewhat testy after a while, especially all the dropped Gs at the end of words. Worri's mother was said to be educated, yet she wrote in dialect, which is something I don't think she would have done.
I appreciated the message of the book, but I found it hard to stick with the book because of these things.
**I received a free copy of this book from LibraryThing's Early Reviewers program in exchange for an honest review.**
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LibraryThing member drsyko
This book starts with a tragedy, and ends with hope and love. I wasn't prepared to like this book when I first started it, because it has a strong religious theme, and I am not religious at all. But, I ended up quite liking this story and becoming very engrossed in the tale of Worie, her brothers,
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and the orphans who come to her for care. I also found this book moving to the point that I cried at several points, which is not like me. The writing is spare and the pace is quick. The author makes good use of dialect and is consistent with it throughout--it added an immersive element that made me feel like I was back in the time and place of the story. If you are a Christian, I think you would love this book. If you're not, I think you would still find it a moving, compelling story. Show Less
LibraryThing member Cherylk
This is the first book I have read by this author. I can tell you now it will not be the last book I read by this author. This is a lovely story of love, family, friendship, growth, and second chances.
Worie is a kind hearted, sweetie. I instantly fell in love with her. Because she could not count
Because I was so engaged with the characters in this book as well as the story that I flew through this book in a matter of a days. There was not a moment that I did not enjoy this book. I recommend this book.
Worie is a kind hearted, sweetie. I instantly fell in love with her. Because she could not count
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on her brothers to help her care of the young children; Worie had to grow up faster than her seventeen years of age. Luckily for her she had some good friends to help her. Because I was so engaged with the characters in this book as well as the story that I flew through this book in a matter of a days. There was not a moment that I did not enjoy this book. I recommend this book.
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LibraryThing member medwards429
Thank you in advance to the publisher, Revell Books, for providing a complimentary review copy through the Revell Reads Reviewer Program. A positive review was not required and all words are my own.
There are some trigger warnings despite this being a “Christian/Faith” themed book. Those will be
As part of the Revell review program, this was one of the choices available for the current month. I chose the book because of the relevance to this current pandemic. It seemed appropriate and was genuinely interesting in how people managed these things back in that time. I was also drawn to it because of a 17 year old who lost her momma who then becomes a surrogate momma to the children in her care and does so with amazing courage, tenacity, and fierceness. Her attitude is admirable and inspiring.
While the “pandemic” is part of this story, it is not the central or main theme.
In “vernacular” for the time and setting, “What Momma Left Behind” is written to sound as the people talked in the location and time. The author takes us, with vivid descriptions and that vernacular, to the heart of this mountain community which is gorgeously represented on the cover. There is a lot of regional talk and references making this story authentic. Very believable dialogue given the time period and location; which definitely fits the genre this book is classified in.
Right off the reader is thrust into the middle of this emotionally provoking tale that will take them on a journey. Readers will need to keep in mind that the 17-year-olds of that time (1877) were vastly different in those times as opposed to the ones today, or those they might know or have known. Told in first person by Worie, this accurately depicts the harshness of the times as well as the resourcefulness of those left behind.
Sproles begins right off with an emotional beginning – Worie (pronounced worry), burying her momma with a neighbor’s help. One brother is away, and the other is drying out in the local jail.
While grieving, she is angry at her “momma” for leaving them behind. Turns out her mother held a dark secret. But, there is more that “momma left behind”. Anger, grief, sadness start off this story which is as much about Worie’s own journey as it is uncovering the secrets her momma left behind.
In addition, Worie has to worry about one of her brothers, Calvin, trying to take her home and a jar her mother left to her – though she can’t seem to figure out why. And, given her momma’s fierceness about protecting it, Worie feels compelled to do the same. But, that isn’t all – Worie soon finds the orphans her momma was feeding which is just one of the many secrets. And, thankfully she isn’t alone – she has friends in Pastor Jess, Ely and his wife Bess, former beau Trigger, and brother Justice.
I wasn’t too far into this book when I read something that made me laugh and smile. On page 23, there is a quote that is similar to what my mom said about “wanting” – “want in one hand and spit in the other, see which gets full fastest”. Spit wasn’t the word my mother used, and she used “fuller faster”, however, the meaning was the same though.
But, after Worie loses her home and two of the children are kidnapped – she stops at nothing to get them back; all the time uncovering more and more secrets that her momma left behind. Even reconciling her past along with her brothers Calvin and Justice’s pasts.
In addition to being captivated by her search for the truth as well as the two kids ripped from her care; I was also rooting for her and Pastor Jess to somehow come together. They seemed so perfect for each other from their overwhelming concern for the children, in addition to as how well they worked to get the children back. I also thought that Jess had a special affection for Worie.
It is in chapter 33 that reveals momma’s reasoning behind the events that begin the book. It is gut-wrenching, yet depicts a selflessness that this wonderful woman had. Her final act was to protect those closest to her.
Worie realizes that truth comes in all shapes/sizes; light or hard to take; but it is what it is.
Beautiful, rich, compelling, and stunning despite the simple words used. This story holds a lot of wisdom which Worie comes to rely on, along with the faith of her mother. Also, the resilience of the children who laugh despite loss and keep living the life they have. That particular point of view makes this story riveting & thought-provoking.
I closed the book feeling grateful for the resourcefulness of my ancestors and people like them; their maturity; their “upbringing”. I understood Worie and other characters because of my great-parents.
I was split between wanting to repeatedly sit this book aside due to the immense and overwhelming sadness that surrounded this story. I often wanted to avoid it. But, I also couldn’t help but pick it back up and keep reading to see where Sproles was going with this.
It was a relatively short read by most standards. This was also due to the fact of short chapters that kept the story going and not just merely meandering on.
Distributed by Revell, a Christian/faith themed publisher, “What Momma Left Behind” has themes of faith, bible quotes, forgiveness, and even redemption. While not central to plot, the faith shown and exhibited is important to the characters and part of their development.
Recommended for those who enjoy the genre, whose ancestors were from that location/time or know of those, people who might want a history lesson or an inspirational tale of overcoming the odds, as well as fans of the author.
There are some trigger warnings despite this being a “Christian/Faith” themed book. Those will be
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depression, suicide, gun violence/death, teen pregnancy as well as a slight mystery by “new-to-me author”, Cindy K. Sproles. As part of the Revell review program, this was one of the choices available for the current month. I chose the book because of the relevance to this current pandemic. It seemed appropriate and was genuinely interesting in how people managed these things back in that time. I was also drawn to it because of a 17 year old who lost her momma who then becomes a surrogate momma to the children in her care and does so with amazing courage, tenacity, and fierceness. Her attitude is admirable and inspiring.
While the “pandemic” is part of this story, it is not the central or main theme.
In “vernacular” for the time and setting, “What Momma Left Behind” is written to sound as the people talked in the location and time. The author takes us, with vivid descriptions and that vernacular, to the heart of this mountain community which is gorgeously represented on the cover. There is a lot of regional talk and references making this story authentic. Very believable dialogue given the time period and location; which definitely fits the genre this book is classified in.
Right off the reader is thrust into the middle of this emotionally provoking tale that will take them on a journey. Readers will need to keep in mind that the 17-year-olds of that time (1877) were vastly different in those times as opposed to the ones today, or those they might know or have known. Told in first person by Worie, this accurately depicts the harshness of the times as well as the resourcefulness of those left behind.
Sproles begins right off with an emotional beginning – Worie (pronounced worry), burying her momma with a neighbor’s help. One brother is away, and the other is drying out in the local jail.
While grieving, she is angry at her “momma” for leaving them behind. Turns out her mother held a dark secret. But, there is more that “momma left behind”. Anger, grief, sadness start off this story which is as much about Worie’s own journey as it is uncovering the secrets her momma left behind.
In addition, Worie has to worry about one of her brothers, Calvin, trying to take her home and a jar her mother left to her – though she can’t seem to figure out why. And, given her momma’s fierceness about protecting it, Worie feels compelled to do the same. But, that isn’t all – Worie soon finds the orphans her momma was feeding which is just one of the many secrets. And, thankfully she isn’t alone – she has friends in Pastor Jess, Ely and his wife Bess, former beau Trigger, and brother Justice.
I wasn’t too far into this book when I read something that made me laugh and smile. On page 23, there is a quote that is similar to what my mom said about “wanting” – “want in one hand and spit in the other, see which gets full fastest”. Spit wasn’t the word my mother used, and she used “fuller faster”, however, the meaning was the same though.
But, after Worie loses her home and two of the children are kidnapped – she stops at nothing to get them back; all the time uncovering more and more secrets that her momma left behind. Even reconciling her past along with her brothers Calvin and Justice’s pasts.
In addition to being captivated by her search for the truth as well as the two kids ripped from her care; I was also rooting for her and Pastor Jess to somehow come together. They seemed so perfect for each other from their overwhelming concern for the children, in addition to as how well they worked to get the children back. I also thought that Jess had a special affection for Worie.
It is in chapter 33 that reveals momma’s reasoning behind the events that begin the book. It is gut-wrenching, yet depicts a selflessness that this wonderful woman had. Her final act was to protect those closest to her.
Worie realizes that truth comes in all shapes/sizes; light or hard to take; but it is what it is.
Beautiful, rich, compelling, and stunning despite the simple words used. This story holds a lot of wisdom which Worie comes to rely on, along with the faith of her mother. Also, the resilience of the children who laugh despite loss and keep living the life they have. That particular point of view makes this story riveting & thought-provoking.
I closed the book feeling grateful for the resourcefulness of my ancestors and people like them; their maturity; their “upbringing”. I understood Worie and other characters because of my great-parents.
I was split between wanting to repeatedly sit this book aside due to the immense and overwhelming sadness that surrounded this story. I often wanted to avoid it. But, I also couldn’t help but pick it back up and keep reading to see where Sproles was going with this.
It was a relatively short read by most standards. This was also due to the fact of short chapters that kept the story going and not just merely meandering on.
Distributed by Revell, a Christian/faith themed publisher, “What Momma Left Behind” has themes of faith, bible quotes, forgiveness, and even redemption. While not central to plot, the faith shown and exhibited is important to the characters and part of their development.
Recommended for those who enjoy the genre, whose ancestors were from that location/time or know of those, people who might want a history lesson or an inspirational tale of overcoming the odds, as well as fans of the author.
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LibraryThing member chrirob
Worri Dresslar has lived all her life in rural Appalachia. While it is a hard life that requires many sacrifices, it is a beautiful country that speaks to her soul. When Worri's mother passes away, she discovers that her mother has been helping to care for and feed multiple orphans on the mountain.
This was a really good book and I could not put it down! It is full of twists and turns and kept me very interested in the fates of Worri, her brothers, and the orphans. Thank you LibraryThing for the opportunity to review this ARC!
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How was she doing this when they barely survived? While Worri is still reeling from her mother's death, her brother Justice is drying up in the local jail and her other brother Calvin declares the homestead his and throws Worri and the orphans out into the street. Why would Calvin do such a thing? What is he looking for in the house? How will Worri and the orphans survive and will they be able to remain together?This was a really good book and I could not put it down! It is full of twists and turns and kept me very interested in the fates of Worri, her brothers, and the orphans. Thank you LibraryThing for the opportunity to review this ARC!
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LibraryThing member eccl
What Momma Left Behind by Cindy K. Sproles is a very emotional book with hard subjects and stong messages. Worie is just 17 years old when her mother takes her own life. Her two brothers had left her and her mother to fend for themselves after their father died. As she is struggling with grief and
The author has put so much heart and soul into 250 pages. I did not want t0 he put the book down and I wish there was more to the story. The story takes place in the Appalachian Mountains in 1877 with illness taking many people's lives. The story is told by Worie, who is very strong spirited, strong willed and a hard worker. This is a great story of family, faith and generosity. It also is an action filled story that shows that not everything is as it seems. One of the parts that really stand out to me is when she asks a young father if he has plans for his children's future if the need arises.
I received a copy of this book from Revell publishing. This is my honest review.
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living alone, young children come looking for her mother. Her mother has taken it upon herself to feed the orphans in the area. Worie takes the little ones in until the day her brother comes insisting the home is now his and they must leave. The author has put so much heart and soul into 250 pages. I did not want t0 he put the book down and I wish there was more to the story. The story takes place in the Appalachian Mountains in 1877 with illness taking many people's lives. The story is told by Worie, who is very strong spirited, strong willed and a hard worker. This is a great story of family, faith and generosity. It also is an action filled story that shows that not everything is as it seems. One of the parts that really stand out to me is when she asks a young father if he has plans for his children's future if the need arises.
I received a copy of this book from Revell publishing. This is my honest review.
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LibraryThing member fcplcataloger
'I was afraid. Afraid of bein alone. Not afraid of bein by myself, but of bein alone---with nobody that cared.'
At seventeen, Worie Dressar has seen a lot of trouble and endured a lot of hurts and now, she is experiencing the worst pain of all! After finding her mother dead from an apparently
Cindy K. Sproles is a new-to-me author and I was captivated by her story that begins in Sourwood Mountain, Tennessee in 1877. Her characters are fascinating and I was especially drawn to Worie and her special friends, Ely and Bess. Ely and Bess are loving, God-fearing people and I believe that it is their Christian witness that allows Worie to grow in her own faith and to carry on the work of her Momma. It is the discovery that her Momma had been secretly caring for children who had been orphaned by "the fever" that offers Worie another challenge and a new mission. How can she help them when she can barely feed herself? Is there a chance of redemption for her brothers, Calvin and Justice? Will Worie finally find peace, forgiveness, and a family as she works to provide homes for these precious children?
Appalachian dialect, an implied mystery about Worie's own birth, and the historical facts about the typhoid and influenza epidemics that invaded the Appalachian Mountains are all reasons that I enjoyed this book. What Momma Left Behind is a story that I won't soon forget and I recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.
I received a copy of this book courtesy of Baker Publishing Group/Revell through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.
At seventeen, Worie Dressar has seen a lot of trouble and endured a lot of hurts and now, she is experiencing the worst pain of all! After finding her mother dead from an apparently
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self-inflicted gunshot wound, Worie is both grief-stricken and angry! Why would her mother leave her alone to deal with two brothers who have done nothing to help the two of them since her father died? But Worie has been taught well, and after burying her momma, she sets out to carry on!Cindy K. Sproles is a new-to-me author and I was captivated by her story that begins in Sourwood Mountain, Tennessee in 1877. Her characters are fascinating and I was especially drawn to Worie and her special friends, Ely and Bess. Ely and Bess are loving, God-fearing people and I believe that it is their Christian witness that allows Worie to grow in her own faith and to carry on the work of her Momma. It is the discovery that her Momma had been secretly caring for children who had been orphaned by "the fever" that offers Worie another challenge and a new mission. How can she help them when she can barely feed herself? Is there a chance of redemption for her brothers, Calvin and Justice? Will Worie finally find peace, forgiveness, and a family as she works to provide homes for these precious children?
Appalachian dialect, an implied mystery about Worie's own birth, and the historical facts about the typhoid and influenza epidemics that invaded the Appalachian Mountains are all reasons that I enjoyed this book. What Momma Left Behind is a story that I won't soon forget and I recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.
I received a copy of this book courtesy of Baker Publishing Group/Revell through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.
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LibraryThing member Asheley
There is a lot of heartbreak and difficulty in this story, but ultimately it is about trust, hope, and family. 17-year-old Worie Dressar loses her mother at the beginning of the story (not a spoiler) and works hard to continue her mother's legacy of feeding and caring for children who have been
I like Worie a lot. She's tough as nails but she's also flawed. The author allowed her good space to work through her grief and the feelings associated with that. By the end, Worie has undergone quite a transformation in her outlook, her way of thinking, and her plan for life. She desperately wanted to be educated well so she could be a teacher, but that dream had to be put aside when she lost her mother. I loved seeing Worie put all of her focus on the task at hand rather than on a romance! What an interesting gal.
I loved the setting: 1870's, East Tennessee. I also really enjoyed the characters-especially Ely and Bess, neighboring former slaves that are dear family friends. Ely and Bess both are wise and offer plenty of counsel and help to Worie as she navigates her loss and plans for her future. The epilogue was wonderful.
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you, Revell!
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orphaned by the typhoid and influenza that is spreading throughout the mountain.I like Worie a lot. She's tough as nails but she's also flawed. The author allowed her good space to work through her grief and the feelings associated with that. By the end, Worie has undergone quite a transformation in her outlook, her way of thinking, and her plan for life. She desperately wanted to be educated well so she could be a teacher, but that dream had to be put aside when she lost her mother. I loved seeing Worie put all of her focus on the task at hand rather than on a romance! What an interesting gal.
I loved the setting: 1870's, East Tennessee. I also really enjoyed the characters-especially Ely and Bess, neighboring former slaves that are dear family friends. Ely and Bess both are wise and offer plenty of counsel and help to Worie as she navigates her loss and plans for her future. The epilogue was wonderful.
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you, Revell!
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LibraryThing member Becky_L
"I want this over with. I want things back to the way they was. We didn’t ask for this mess. And every minute that passes just pours more manure on top of us.” No, this is not someone present-day talking about the Corona virus. This is 17-year-old Worie Dressar, who in 1877 has watched both the
Why should you pick up this book, what Momma Left Behind, by Cindy K Sproles? First, it’s amazing to think sometimes that there was another time and place as arduous as this year (2020) has seemed. There can be something comforting to see someone go through something- a pandemic and separation from society, no less, and realize it’s possible to come out alive and more mature on the other side. Oh, but the process!
Then there’s that quaintness about the speech patterns of the mountain people that pulls you into the story faster than you can say "moonshine.” One example:
"Anger crawled up from the deepest part of me, hurt seeped outta my heart, and fear eat at me like a hungry buzzard. Momma had left me in more ways than one.”
This novel is very reminiscent of Christy by Catherine Marshall. There’s even a young, interested preacher. Pastor Jess is such a good complement to Worie. He has such a great soothing way with people when Worie tends to fly off the handle.
I loved all, no, most, of the secondary characters. But all were well-drawn, even Calvin, Justice, and deceased Momma.
Ely is a voice to be reckoned with. One part comfort, one part Scripture, one part reproof, one part encouragement.
The children. They were my undoing.
I never knew what to expect around the bend, be it literal or figurative.
Sproles deftly diffuses more than one molasses-like sticky situation with humor and I found myself laughing out loud. Sometimes the tears came. But then, I’d think how strong the mountain women were.
As Momma would say, "Take a day to mourn your lot, then shovel it over your shoulder and move ahead.”
The values of family, hope, and forgiveness shine above judgment and false self-perception. You may move beyond this novel, but a piece of Sourdough Mountain will forever rest in your soul.
Notable Quotables:
"I’d heard folks talk about lightnin striking twice in one place. I reckon it had done struck me twice and then some.”
"Them mountains, they’s like the hills and valleys in our souls. We can’t have one without the other, but we can figure the best way to
climb.”
"I thought trust was something you could find, but I’m seein it ain’t found- it’s gived.”
"...truth ain’t promised to be easy, but it is promised to always be right.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. This in no way affects my opinions, which are solely my own.
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flu and typhoid decimate her part of Appalachia. Now, Worie’s mother is gone, and Worie’s faith is put to a fearsome test as 1877 proves to be the hardest year of her young life.Why should you pick up this book, what Momma Left Behind, by Cindy K Sproles? First, it’s amazing to think sometimes that there was another time and place as arduous as this year (2020) has seemed. There can be something comforting to see someone go through something- a pandemic and separation from society, no less, and realize it’s possible to come out alive and more mature on the other side. Oh, but the process!
Then there’s that quaintness about the speech patterns of the mountain people that pulls you into the story faster than you can say "moonshine.” One example:
"Anger crawled up from the deepest part of me, hurt seeped outta my heart, and fear eat at me like a hungry buzzard. Momma had left me in more ways than one.”
This novel is very reminiscent of Christy by Catherine Marshall. There’s even a young, interested preacher. Pastor Jess is such a good complement to Worie. He has such a great soothing way with people when Worie tends to fly off the handle.
I loved all, no, most, of the secondary characters. But all were well-drawn, even Calvin, Justice, and deceased Momma.
Ely is a voice to be reckoned with. One part comfort, one part Scripture, one part reproof, one part encouragement.
The children. They were my undoing.
I never knew what to expect around the bend, be it literal or figurative.
Sproles deftly diffuses more than one molasses-like sticky situation with humor and I found myself laughing out loud. Sometimes the tears came. But then, I’d think how strong the mountain women were.
As Momma would say, "Take a day to mourn your lot, then shovel it over your shoulder and move ahead.”
The values of family, hope, and forgiveness shine above judgment and false self-perception. You may move beyond this novel, but a piece of Sourdough Mountain will forever rest in your soul.
Notable Quotables:
"I’d heard folks talk about lightnin striking twice in one place. I reckon it had done struck me twice and then some.”
"Them mountains, they’s like the hills and valleys in our souls. We can’t have one without the other, but we can figure the best way to
climb.”
"I thought trust was something you could find, but I’m seein it ain’t found- it’s gived.”
"...truth ain’t promised to be easy, but it is promised to always be right.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. This in no way affects my opinions, which are solely my own.
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LibraryThing member hes7
Trust me—What Momma Left Behind is a trip to Appalachia that you do not want to skip!
When Worie Dressar’s mother dies, she begrudgingly takes up the mantle of caring for her community’s orphaned children. Her story becomes one of grief and struggle, family and sacrifice, faith and hope and
Throughout the book, Cindy K. Sproles sets the scene so vividly, and Worie, her personality, and her circumstances come to life so easily (the writing is exquisite from beginning to end). That she lives in a community altered by fevered illnesses makes it a particularly interesting read, perfect for a book-club type of discussion. To historical-fiction readers, I definitely recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
When Worie Dressar’s mother dies, she begrudgingly takes up the mantle of caring for her community’s orphaned children. Her story becomes one of grief and struggle, family and sacrifice, faith and hope and
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proves to be an engrossing one.Throughout the book, Cindy K. Sproles sets the scene so vividly, and Worie, her personality, and her circumstances come to life so easily (the writing is exquisite from beginning to end). That she lives in a community altered by fevered illnesses makes it a particularly interesting read, perfect for a book-club type of discussion. To historical-fiction readers, I definitely recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
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LibraryThing member KarenHerndon
Loved this book!
LibraryThing member HuberK
What Momma Left Behind by Cindy K. Sproles
Format: Paperback
Pages: 256
Publisher: Revell
Reviewed by: mrsboone4
What Momma Left Behind opens with an explosion and doesn't disappoint all the way through.
Worri Dressar's momma left her. Leaving behind all of the many orphans of all ages, that Momma took
Worri jumps in and opens her home to the orphans that come to her, seeking her momma. Worri has 2 brothers, Justice who is addicted to his hooch and Calvin who is mean and lazy. Justice is in jail and Calvin is off who knows where, stirring up trouble.
Friends of the family, Ely and Bessie, they are both former slaves, that came from a plantation with Worri's momma. They give a lot of help and support to Worri and the orphans.
Pastor Jess is also instrumental in helping Worri achieve things that she never would have been able to do on her own.
I have already read this book twice and I'm contemplating reading it for a third time. Really, really good book. Made itself to home on my favorite's shelf.
Many thanks to LibraryThing for the opportunity to read and review this book. My opinions are my own. I was under no obligation to post a review.
Format: Paperback
Pages: 256
Publisher: Revell
Reviewed by: mrsboone4
What Momma Left Behind opens with an explosion and doesn't disappoint all the way through.
Worri Dressar's momma left her. Leaving behind all of the many orphans of all ages, that Momma took
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care of. Her family is poor, but that hasn't prevented her momma from giving a little beans here and a dumpling there to all of the orphaned children, left alone since their parents have died from the fever.Worri jumps in and opens her home to the orphans that come to her, seeking her momma. Worri has 2 brothers, Justice who is addicted to his hooch and Calvin who is mean and lazy. Justice is in jail and Calvin is off who knows where, stirring up trouble.
Friends of the family, Ely and Bessie, they are both former slaves, that came from a plantation with Worri's momma. They give a lot of help and support to Worri and the orphans.
Pastor Jess is also instrumental in helping Worri achieve things that she never would have been able to do on her own.
I have already read this book twice and I'm contemplating reading it for a third time. Really, really good book. Made itself to home on my favorite's shelf.
Many thanks to LibraryThing for the opportunity to read and review this book. My opinions are my own. I was under no obligation to post a review.
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LibraryThing member Mizroady
What Momma Left Behind
By Cindy K. Sproles
I find myself at a loss for words to describe Cindy Sproles books! She is incredible! Her books are always on my read list! Her understanding and ability to capture all the aspects of life in the Appalachian Mountains in the late 1890’s breathtakingly
Influenza has struck the small community of Sourwood, Tennessee. Many many people are dying, but what is worse they are leaving orphaned children alone in a poverty stricken environment. After the death of her father, Worie is thankful to have her mother. Then tragedy strikes. She finds her mother dead from suicide. She faces grief and confusion as to why her mother would take her life. Worie is 19 years old so she isn’t in as dire straits as all the young children left alone.
Totally unexpectedly the orphans of the area begin showing up at her home seeking help. How can she help them, she hasn’t much? Yet her loving tender heart moves to do the impossible and take them in. God works through these heart retching events to change Worie’s life and the lives of others around her.
It rang so true to me that God uses horrible circumstances to turn our trust to Him when there is nowhere else to turn. I loved the wise words friends Ely and Bess; they are ones to remember. I was inspired by Worie’s courage, determination, and willingness to listen to God. This book is filled with unexpected surprises, mystery, and beautiful examples of the love and help of those around us. A very emotional but uplifting book.
By Cindy K. Sproles
I find myself at a loss for words to describe Cindy Sproles books! She is incredible! Her books are always on my read list! Her understanding and ability to capture all the aspects of life in the Appalachian Mountains in the late 1890’s breathtakingly
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real. Each story, including this one reaches deep inside of you on an emotional level. You aren’t just reading about the characters and their experiences, but living them. Influenza has struck the small community of Sourwood, Tennessee. Many many people are dying, but what is worse they are leaving orphaned children alone in a poverty stricken environment. After the death of her father, Worie is thankful to have her mother. Then tragedy strikes. She finds her mother dead from suicide. She faces grief and confusion as to why her mother would take her life. Worie is 19 years old so she isn’t in as dire straits as all the young children left alone.
Totally unexpectedly the orphans of the area begin showing up at her home seeking help. How can she help them, she hasn’t much? Yet her loving tender heart moves to do the impossible and take them in. God works through these heart retching events to change Worie’s life and the lives of others around her.
It rang so true to me that God uses horrible circumstances to turn our trust to Him when there is nowhere else to turn. I loved the wise words friends Ely and Bess; they are ones to remember. I was inspired by Worie’s courage, determination, and willingness to listen to God. This book is filled with unexpected surprises, mystery, and beautiful examples of the love and help of those around us. A very emotional but uplifting book.
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LibraryThing member EstherFilbrun
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Having just read Christy by Catherine Marshall, the setting felt very similar—but the stories, while bearing resemblances to each other in some ways, are also completely different. This one is a very well intertwined mystery—whereas that one was more of a
One thing I really enjoyed about this book was how the narrative matches the main character’s way of speaking. Grammatically, this book would be terrible—but it makes sense in the setting, and actually brought it more to life for me. I haven’t seen that stylistic choice in many other places—generally, even if the conversations somewhat match the setting, the narrative is proper English. This one made sense the way it was, and I enjoyed that.
I also enjoyed my trip through the Smoky Mountains. I’d love to visit a place like that sometime, although I could do without the mud! Seeing things through the eyes of someone who had lived there all their life was quite interesting—and I also thought the descriptions of how they went about doing their daily chores interesting.
There are so many things I feel like I could say about this book—the whole concept of what constitutes a family, adoption, love, support, and so much more. In some ways, it’s a delightful story. In other ways, I did end up really hating a couple of the characters, even though I was sorry their storylines had to end the way they did. In all, I felt like this was an excellent read. Perhaps not quite as deep as some books, but it still held a fascinating mystery in a beautiful historical setting, and I’ll be on the lookout for other books by this author!
Note: If suicide is a trigger for you, this book may not be a good choice. One happens just before the story starts, and it's referred to throughout the book.
I requested a free review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
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biographical novel.One thing I really enjoyed about this book was how the narrative matches the main character’s way of speaking. Grammatically, this book would be terrible—but it makes sense in the setting, and actually brought it more to life for me. I haven’t seen that stylistic choice in many other places—generally, even if the conversations somewhat match the setting, the narrative is proper English. This one made sense the way it was, and I enjoyed that.
I also enjoyed my trip through the Smoky Mountains. I’d love to visit a place like that sometime, although I could do without the mud! Seeing things through the eyes of someone who had lived there all their life was quite interesting—and I also thought the descriptions of how they went about doing their daily chores interesting.
There are so many things I feel like I could say about this book—the whole concept of what constitutes a family, adoption, love, support, and so much more. In some ways, it’s a delightful story. In other ways, I did end up really hating a couple of the characters, even though I was sorry their storylines had to end the way they did. In all, I felt like this was an excellent read. Perhaps not quite as deep as some books, but it still held a fascinating mystery in a beautiful historical setting, and I’ll be on the lookout for other books by this author!
Note: If suicide is a trigger for you, this book may not be a good choice. One happens just before the story starts, and it's referred to throughout the book.
I requested a free review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
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Awards
Feathered Quill Book Award (Finalist — Historical Fiction — 2021)
Language
Physical description
8.5 inches
ISBN
0800737040 / 9780800737047