Scan barcode
p_t_b's review against another edition
4.0
raided the tuscaloosa public library audiobook collection for this one . listening rather than reading made me not always 100% sure what was bragg's writing and what was a direct quote from some some of the people profiled, but it doesn't really matter that much -- this is somewhere between studs terkel and ancestor worship (but in a mostly clear-eyed way). stories of mill hands, mill owners, etc from NE alabama covering most of the 20th century. bragg has a good feel for when the subject material doesn't need much literary jazzing-up and good timing for when it does. the book doesn't spend much time talking about race or gender - although it poor-mouths rich people which is always welcome. better than i was expecting, worth reading for anyone interested in labor and the south.
missyjohnson's review against another edition
3.0
sad stories of cotton/textile workers in Jacksonville, AL. but also stories of proud, loyal and hard working folks, willing to work for slave wages and in dangerous conditions in order to take care of their family. I have enjoyed Rick Bragg's stories as they take place where my mother grew up.
beachbookbabe's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.0
bookrescuer's review against another edition
3.0
I really enjoy Rick Bragg, and I love stories from the historical south, but these stories ended up having a repetitive feel. In no way do I want to diminish the suffering and horrific circumstances surrounding the cotton mills, but after so many stories of missing limbs and digits, I really wanted to hear something more. 3.5 stars.
nicolaspratt's review against another edition
4.0
Sad, emotional, real, Bragg powerfully captures the reality that many face in the rust-belt of America. Well worth the read for anyone who is interested in the reality of the heartland of America, and how it's people and places have been taken advantage of over the last 100 years, solely for money.
smojarbs's review against another edition
dark
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
5.0
The audio book is read by the author. I think it's important to hear these stories as they are meant to be heard.
bcbartuska's review against another edition
4.0
Not my favorite of Rick Bragg’s, but his reading voice could pretty much have a phone book to work with and I’d enjoy it, so… there’s that.
mamaorgana80's review against another edition
5.0
A sad and important American story. Prose that reads like poetry.
belacbooks's review against another edition
3.0
Another great read from Bragg. It was interesting to see stories of the millers—so central to his life’s story—from the genesis of the mill until the final piece of it was sold.