Thursday, December 27, 2007

The Keepers of the House by Shirley Ann Grau 1965


This is simply a great story and a great read about a wealthy, historic family in the segregated south. The Howlands have money but they don't show it. The tension becomes significant when the widower, William, "finds" Margaret, a poor black girl, and brings her home where she eventually bears his children. William also has a daughter and granddaughter from his first marriage (white), and the interaction between the family members weaves an interesting contrast in the times leading up to the civil rights movement. The Keepers of the House has a great climax and satisfying ending. I highly recommend it.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

A beautifully written book, it captures the high racial tension of the 1960's Deep South perfectly. The author knowingly crafts her characters and her setting. A fine and educational read.

Anonymous said...

I've read 30 of the books so far and this one is in my top 5. It is well written and the final chapter just explodes. This book should have a revival with the issues of racial identity and politics.

annette said...

I've read over 30 of the winners and this one is in my top 5. So well written and the final chapter just explodes. This book is so timely given the current focus on race and politics.