This is one of the best books that I've read in a long time! Not only did I fall in love Noah and Wiley, I just was so taken by their whole big 'ol southern family. There were moments that I wanted to cry so hard because Wiley, a gay, single father in Mississippi, received absolutely no emotional support from his family! At times, I wanted to throw my kindle across the room because I can't stomach ignorance and bigotry. Other times, I was literally laughing out loud, especially listening to Wiley's insane papaw!!! Omg, the things that came out of his mouth!!!! This story is a relationship story about a man and his deaf nine (almost ten) year old son. The love they had for each other just overwhelmed me at times. My heart hurt worrying about how they'd make ends meet, or the loneliness a single parent like Wiley must feel while caring for a special needs child. I was beside myself when Wiley met Jackson!!! Someone to love ... someone who loves Noah as much as he does ... someone to help ease Wiley's responsibilities ... This story also has a message. Being born and raised in NewYork, I was astounded and saddened that there are many southern people (holy rollers, I guess?) who treat gay folks like the Black Plague. It frightens and angers me to think that in this day and age there is still so much hatred and ignorance coming out of the mouths of so called Christians ... We are who we are ... We don't get to choose who we love, why should we? It just miraculously happens! Gay, straight, bi, trans ... All of us should be able to love the person that was meant for us ~ openly, freely, legally and without any apprehension of being hurt, physically or emotionally. Just beautiful!!! Nick Wilgus, ten stars for you ~ bless your heart!!! I will be reading this book over time and time again!!!! I really hate when someone picks a book for me that they loved and I hate it.I tried to like it. Wiley Cantrell was terrible. I hated his voice. I think he told us a hundred times Noah was a meth baby. I got it the first time. I saw all the 4-5 star ratings so I know most love this book. I just did not find it funny. I cried for the child and wanted to hit Wiley on the head for not being a better father. He wondered did he make a mistake taking his son to see his mother. You think? I am sorry I did not like the book. I tried. I wanted to like it but failed. Sorry.
What do You think about Shaking The Sugar Tree (2014)?
I love this book so much! The characters were great! Even Pappaw! :)
—Rani
LOVED IT!!! Wonderful Wonderful. A must read.
—Liz
