Before We Were Yours

Before We Were Yours

Lisa Wingate

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historical fiction ・ family ・mystery ・eye-opening

In this double-narrative novel based on not only one, but hundreds of true stories, Lisa Wingate brings the reality of life in the Tennessee Children's Home Society orphanage to light and to life. This massive operation that spanned decades of the 20th century allowed children- some of which were really orphans and some were kidnapped or tricked into being given away- to be physically, verbally, and even sexually abused in the process of being sold for exorbitant prices to wealthy members of society.

This #1 New York Times Best Seller follows the life of Rill Foss as she fights against the TCHS to keep her family together in the midst of the Great Depression. Meanwhile, we read about Avery Stafford, a senator's daughter bound for political office who's life takes a detour-or even a completely new path- when she discovers the secret her family has kept hidden for so long. This book will pull some heart strings and ignite a fire of curiosity and sympathy for the victims of the TCHS, both the survivors, fatalities, and unknown souls. A must read!

Recommended for: history buffs, someone looking for a "thinker", those who are interested in the foster and adoption systems