We were in Charleston for the South Carolina vs. Texas A&M game at the invitation of dear friends who live in Charleston. There were 9 couples; some traveled to the game in Columbia, while some stayed in Charleston to visit bookstores, attend the Zibby Owens event at the Charleston Library Society and shop on King Street. On this particular day the bookish events won out over Aggie game day for this “grateful reader.” Also, I do admit that shopping had a bit to do with the decision. It was a great trip with lots of walking, shopping, and eating! Here are the two bookstores I was able to visit, both on King Street!
MARY ALICE MONROE: “Based in Charleston, South Carolina, is the New York Times best-selling author of twenty-seven books–and counting. Richly layered and rooted to place, her Lowcountry-set novels defy literary labels. More than feel-good escapism or traditional beach reads, her engrossing stories deftly explore the intersections and parallels between Mother Nature and human nature, hooking readers emotionally and introducing them to characters and causes that live in their hearts and minds. Her robust library of work–from the popular Beach House series to her newer middle grade book–engages readers across generational lines, inspiring them to take a harder look at the environment–and our impact on it. To ask the important questions. To seek answers. To create connections–both with nature and in our personal lives.”
Grateful Reader Review by Dorothy Schwab
The Summer of Lost and Found is the story of family dynamics during a pandemic. Mary Alice Monroe continues her beloved Beach House series and the saga of the Rutledge family as the 2020 pandemic causes the world to shut down. The setting off the coast of South Carolina, Sullivan’s Island, and the Isle of Palms, is where MAM weaves low-country charm and the magic of a beach house with family relationships during quarantine, job lay-offs, travel restrictions, and handling commitments. The beauty of the island beaches, wildlife, and even “Frogmore Stew” combined with old and new relationships makes for an endearing, satisfying saga. What’s important is “family weathering a storm with compassion, camaraderie, ingenuity, commitment, friendship, fun, and most of all love.” Take a walk on the beach, soak up tidbits on king tides, loggerhead turtle habitats, sea oats, dunes and fiddler crabs-all while gleaning wisdom from several generations of Southern women; “If it’s not one thing, it’s another!”
The Grateful Reader 