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rme93's review against another edition
4.0
I came into this book having read Shelby Foote's historical works, but never his fiction. I think that you get what you expect-Foote is after all known for his writing, although for fair reason his historical takes have received some criticism (they are very much "Dad histories.") I think this book is a fuller expression of his form and style as a writer, and if you like Foote you will like this too. And if you like his writing but find his history a little dated, you will probably prefer his fiction.
Now, the novel was surprisingly gritty, closer in context to his contemporaries than I was expecting. This story in particular is really excellent, and offers a true crime spin on classic southern lit. I personally loved the different narrators, the small-town feel, and Foote's accurate depiction of the anxiety people had over the changing times and norms. I read it all in one go, and found the story compelling.
I would recommend Follow Me Down to folks who enjoy the southern literature heyday of the early to mid-20th century. Of course, as you can guess from some of my phrasing, the book will have some problematic aspects due to the time and place of its writing and author. Foote is closer to Faulkner than Hurston, if you catch my drift, which should be in no way unexpected. It's just worth mentioning, since it seems sometimes on GoodReads reviews people walk into books unaware. Like I said, for those that are comfortable with the period's literature, this a work that is often overlooked but should be read more frequently. It still stands up as an enjoyable read today.
Now, the novel was surprisingly gritty, closer in context to his contemporaries than I was expecting. This story in particular is really excellent, and offers a true crime spin on classic southern lit. I personally loved the different narrators, the small-town feel, and Foote's accurate depiction of the anxiety people had over the changing times and norms. I read it all in one go, and found the story compelling.
I would recommend Follow Me Down to folks who enjoy the southern literature heyday of the early to mid-20th century. Of course, as you can guess from some of my phrasing, the book will have some problematic aspects due to the time and place of its writing and author. Foote is closer to Faulkner than Hurston, if you catch my drift, which should be in no way unexpected. It's just worth mentioning, since it seems sometimes on GoodReads reviews people walk into books unaware. Like I said, for those that are comfortable with the period's literature, this a work that is often overlooked but should be read more frequently. It still stands up as an enjoyable read today.
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