Cindy Morgan has won thirteen Dove awards, including Songwriter of the Year. She has written two adult non-fiction books, and one children's picture book. The Year of Jubilee is her debut adult fiction novel, but it reads like the work of a seasoned author. This coming-of-age story is told through the eyes of thirteen-year-old Grace Mockingbird who is growing up in the small town of Jubilee, Kentucky in 1963. Her story focuses on challenges to the relationships within her family and among different parts of her community. Those having grown up in the south during the civil rights movement will identify with the struggles, as unfortunately will some who still see or live with disparities. Morgan deals with the theme of the purpose of suffering within both of these storylines, doing so with great wisdom and empathy. Her character development for both primary and secondary characters is skillfully accomplished resulting in strong emotional reactions on the part of the reader.
Even though we are only a third of the way through the year, I believe The Year of Jubilee will be one of my top five book at year's end. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from Tyndale House Publishers via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
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