BOOKS

Rhodes’ new novel Sugar is the story of a girl growing up on a sugar plantation in Civil War-era Mississippi. And if sweets weren’t mentioned enough, Sugar hates her name. “No sweets, just savories,” she says.

Unfortunately, Missus Beale and other authorities are making Sugar’s life anything but sweet, trying to restrict who her friends are. But no matter what, Sugar looks for the good in everyone and isn’t about to let social rules spoil her fun.

In a time when hanging out with kids of different races isn’t allowed, Sugar finds friendships with Billy, a plantation owner’s son, and Chinese immigrant workers Beau and Master Liu. Sugar joins the River Road family and has quite the cross-cultural experience. Everyone has a different background and something new to bring to the table, whether they trace their African, Chinese or European roots.

Sugar is driven and sassy, and you definitely won’t want to miss her story as she challenges the societal norms around her. Be sure to pick up a copy (available now!), then come back and share your thoughts.

Grab the book here!

by Caroline Cassard | 2/1/2016