Porch Stories: A Grandmother's Guide to Happiness

by Jewell Parker Rhodes

Book Overview

Award-winning author of fiction and nonfiction Jewell Parker Rhodes is a master of her craft, under-standing how both real and imagined stories can serve as a pathway to enlightenment. Porch Stories... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0743497112
• ISBN13: 9780743497114
• Release Date: September 2006
• Publisher: Atria Books
• Length: 161 Pages
• Weight: 1.06 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 7.3" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Good read

It was a good book and became emotional at the end. I also liked the end of the book where you can add in your own memories and family stories.

This Book is Meant To Be Savored

Jewell Parker Rhodes has delivered another winner with Porch Stories. She has penned a wonderful story about her relationship with her grandmother. Deserted by her mother before she could crawl always left her feeling insecure, but not unloved because her wonderful grandmother filled her empty spaces with a love that was rich and pure. The two of them spent time bonding while sitting on the front stoop of their house. It was then that her grandmother , Ernestine, used to tell her stories of the past. Not only were these stories of the past, but they also taught Ms. Rhodes a strong moral code, and values that she could use throughout her life. Whenever Jewell's behavior was not up to code Grandmother Ernestine had a story to tell that made her understand why her particular action was not wise." "Remember your name, who you be in love with your good self" was the number one message that Ernestine wanted to make sure Jewell understood . For a short time Jewell had to go live with her mother who did not share the same views in life that were instilled in her daughter . This made the period of time during Jewell's parents attempt at reconciliation very hard for her. Living with her mother made her realize just how complex the world really is. It was her grandmother' s efforts that made her into the writer that she is today. Ernestine was determined that Jewell get the education that she herself had always longed for but was not able to get. I truly enjoyed reading this book just as I have enjoyed each book by this author, it left me feeling good. Maybe you have a grandmother or a great- aunt in your life that has told you stories that helped you down life's path . If you did you will enjoy this book as it brings back memories of a time when the world was a lot less complicated. In fact I think that anyone who likes a book that lifts your spirits will enjoy reading this book. Just as usual Ms. Rhodes has delivered a winner. Reviewed by Margaret Ball APOOO BookClub

Miss Ernestines granddaughter

As one of Jewell's cousins reading this book was like taking a train ride back in time. I could see my Grandmother's face, hear her voice, smell her food and see her loving eyes. I thank my Cousin for reminding me and sharing with others how her loving Spirit lives on in those who know her words. My Daughter never knew my Gram, but can now know her Spirit through the words of this wonderful book.

Just Wonderful

The title of the book explains it all. It is about Jewell and her Grandmother just bonding as Grandmother's and grandchildren do. It's just little snippets of her life with grandma on the porch and the all the wisdom behind her grandmother's words. Very touching novel... It made me miss my grandmother even more... Great Job Jewell

ENJOYABLE WHILE ENLIGHTENING

MS RHODES HAS AN INCREDIBLE ABILITY TO PUT FAMILY HISTORY INTO AN ENJOYABLE READING MEDIUM. THIS BOOK IS ONE I HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ANYONE WHO'S IN TUNE WITH LIFE AND A BIT OF NOSTALGIA. I LOOK FORWARD TO READING ANYTHING ELSE THIS WOMAN HAS WRITTEN.