Book details
Truth with a Capital T
Description
Lots of families have secrets. Little-Known Fact: My family has an antebellum house with a locked wingand I've got a secret of my own.I thought getting kicked out of the Gifted & Talented programor not being ';pegged,' as Mama saidwas the worst thing that could happen to me. W-r-o-n-g, wrong.I arrived in Tweedle, Georgia, to spend the summer with Granny and Gramps, only to find no sign of them. When they finally showed up, Cousin Isaac was there too, with his trumpet in hand, and I found myself having to pretend to be thrilled about watching my musical family rehearse for the town's Anniversary Spectacular. It was h-a-r-d, hard. Meanwhile, I, Maebelle T.-for-No-Talent Earl, set out to win a blue ribbon with an old family recipe.But what was harder and even more wrong than any of that was breaking into the locked wing of my grandparents' house, trying to learn the Truth with a capital T about Josiah T. Eberlee, my long-gone-but-not-forgotten relation. To succeed, I couldn't be a solo act. I'd need my new friends, a basset hound named Cotton, the strength of my entire family, and a little help from a secret code.With grace and humor and a heaping helping of little-known facts, Bethany Hegedus incorporates the passions of the North and the South and bridges the past and the present in this story about one summer in the life of a sassy Southern girl and her trumpet-playing adopted Northern cousin.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
273 pages
Why to read
- Explores Complex Themes: 'Truth with a Capital T' delves into important and complex themes such as family dynamics, racial identity, and the search for belonging. Reading this book can provide valuable insights into these issues and encourage readers to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs.
- Engaging Storytelling: Bethany Hegedus employs engaging storytelling techniques that captivate readers, making it a compelling read. The narrative intertwines the lives of two distinct characters, Maebelle and Tookie, creating a rich and layered story that keeps readers invested.
- Cultural Representation: The book offers a glimpse into African American culture and history, particularly through the character of Maebelle, who shares stories passed down from her grandmother. This representation can be both educational and affirming, especially for readers who see their own heritage reflected in the pages.
- Character Development: Readers should read 'Truth with a Capital T' to witness the well-crafted character development throughout the story. The characters are relatable and their growth is portrayed realistically, which can inspire readers to consider their own personal growth and resilience in the face of challenges.