Out of the Night that Covers Me
By Pat Cunningham Devoto
Warner Books - January 2001
ISBN:0446527513 - Hardcover
General Fiction - Southern

Reviewed by: Jen Oliver, MyShelf.com
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This is a wonderful story that takes place in Bainbridge, Alabama. It is toward the end of the era of slavery, and slaves are trying to make names for themselves. The story is focused on a young boy named John, who is forced to move from the North to Alabama with his aunt's family when his parents are killed. John is forced to adapt to the ways of the South, and learns about the difference between how Blacks and Whites are treated there. He learns quickly that he is expected to help out in the fields, and not to use his book knowledge to help the family.

The story is beautifully written, with great descriptions of the scenery. This reader could easily picture herself in the cotton fields and swimming in the creek. The plot is very easy to understand. The ending made sense, but I had hoped that it would end differently.

A truly touching story about trying to survive in an environment that is different from what you originally came from. It also shows the importance of a family sticking together through thick and thin.

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