Under the Tulip Tree
books by Michelle Shocklee
Sixteen-year-old Lorena Leland's dreams of a rich and fulfilling life as a writer are dashed when the stock market crashes in 1929. Seven years into the Great Depression, Rena's banker father has retreated into the bottle, her sister is married to a lazy charlatan and gambler, and Rena is an unemployed newspaper reporter. Eager for any writing job, Rena accepts a position interviewing former slaves for the Federal Writers' Project. There, she meets Frankie Washington, a 101-year-old woman whose honest yet tragic past captivates Rena.As Frankie recounts her life as a slave, Rena is horrified to learn of all the older woman has endured--especially because Rena's ancestors owned slaves. While Frankie's story challenges Rena's preconceptions about slavery, it also connects the two women whose lives are otherwise separated by age, race, and circumstances. But will this bond of respect, admiration, and friendship be broken by a revelation neither woman sees coming? The book avoids relying on clichés, instead opting for more nuanced storytelling choices. Situations are handled with originality, even when exploring familiar themes. This freshness helps maintain reader interest throughout. Readers who value thoughtful characterization often appreciate the depth found in this book. Characters are not defined by a single trait, but instead evolve in response to the events around them. This development adds layers to the story and encourages emotional investment. The author demonstrates an understanding of how readers process stories over time. Information is revealed at a pace that supports comprehension and interest. This careful pacing contributes to a smooth and enjoyable read. Readers often appreciate how the book respects their ability to interpret events and themes independently. Rather than providing explicit explanations, the narrative encourages thoughtful engagement and personal reflection.