Disappointing, mostly because I was hoping for a lot more about Crowell's music. I guess that's not really the fault of the book, which is a memoir about his Texas childhood, which reminds me a bit of James Baldwin's description of the "usual bleak fantasy" of conventional African American autobiography. No question that Crowell's descriptions of his parents and the poor white/working class culture he grew up in are sharply drawn. But there's nothing here that's really surprising. If I'd been reading for something else, it would have certainly been a three star book, and maybe even four. As it is, I wound up skimming the last half and won't go back. The moment he started to rant against the insanity that is trying to use an attic fan to cool a house in Southeast Texas, I was certain that Crowell and I are of the same people. For years I've wish for a story about growing up in Harris County, Texas. As this is really the only one I've read, I can safely say it's the best of the best. Oh yeah, a word of warning, Rodney Crowell is a country music guy. He likes metaphors. He's from Texas. He really likes similes. If figures of speech make you violently angry, avoid this book.I read a library copy but plan to buy it. And read it again. That's how much this book meant to me.
What do You think about Chinaberry Sidewalks (2011)?
Dynamite! This songwriter is also a wonderful memoirist! Don't miss this one.
—lisanneroelofsen
I would say more like 3 1/2 stars. Very interesting read. Good writing.
—AsianShyGirl
