Words of Worth

That’s a Touchy Subject!

April 19, 2013

UnknownSometimes the subject matter found in children’s books is decidedly, well…not so childlike.  In fact, many of the themes presented in books on my 12 year old daughter’s bookshelf are topics that as adults, we still find ourselves struggling with.

It takes a rare literary talent and a great love for children to be able to present the topic of racial tensions in 1960’s America in a way that’s understandable and approachable for all ages.  Yet, that is exactly what Augusta Scattergood does in the book “Glory Be”.  Here’s a synopsis:

A Mississippi town in 1964 gets riled when tempers flare at the segregated public pool.

As much as Gloriana June Hemphill, or Glory as everyone knows her, wants to turn twelve, there are times when Glory wishes she could turn back the clock a year. Jesslyn, her sister and former confidante, no longer has the time of day for her now that she’ll be entering high school. Then there’s her best friend, Frankie. Things have always been so easy with Frankie, and now suddenly they aren’t. Maybe it’s the new girl from the North that’s got everyone out of sorts. Or maybe it’s the debate about whether or not the town should keep the segregated public pool open.

Augusta Scattergood has drawn on real-life events to create a memorable novel about family, friendship, and choices that aren’t always easy.

Being from Mississippi (like Ms. Scattergood) I immediately connected with the characters and the theme.  Though the more recent history presented in “Glory Be” is a touchstone for our culture in the United States, we need to remember the Bible reminds us many times that God is not a respecter of persons.   See Acts 10:34-35

As a child in the Deep South, I sang a little song that I don’t think is “politically correct” anymore but the truth of it still rings true.

“Jesus love the little children

All the children of the world

Red and yellow, black and white

They are precious in His sight

Jesus loves the little children of the world.”

Last week, Sheryl reminded us of the two most important “Rules”:  Love God and love others.  To do that, we might need to set aside any preconceived ideas we have about someone just because of the color of their skin.

“My brethren, do not hold your faith on our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism.”  James 2:1

To purchase “Glory Be” click here:

http://www.amazon.com/Glory-Be-Augusta-Scattergood/dp/0545331803