14 Comments
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Linda Brown's avatar

I like the old maps you added to this chapter!

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William F. Edwards's avatar

I liked the use of the post cards in this chapter.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Thank you, William. May I ask you a question? This book is written entirely, and intentionally in the vernacular and grammar of rural 1949 America -- the language of my grandmother. I would like a man's point of view of dealing with this language difference. If you have time.

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William F. Edwards's avatar

None of it felt jarring in the Huck Finn/Tom Sawyer way where I need a translation, it's not an obstacle. The dialogue did stand out to me as feeling oddly formal, now I wonder if that's simply part of the language/regional differences.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Thank you for this feedback. Yes, regional and of the era. It is authentic, but I am not sure if younger readers know it is intentional. Thank you for taking the time to reply.

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Janice Walton's avatar

There is such a sweetness and gentleness to Bartle's story. . . a far cry from life today, it seems.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Thank you, Janice. Riles Crossing is a quiet and comfortable place. People are kind. There ARE still quiet, kind, and comfortable places... one has to seek them out. You know, just for a break from all the electronic noise...

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Lori Colman's avatar

Bartle is such a stand up guy. I loved all the things he said to his daughter about how we can choose to behave. And how Ayla had strong shoes from the rough road she’d traveled. His honorable character is sadly a remnant of bygone days.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

I like Bartle, too. He seems like an old friend to me after being acquainted with him for five years. Fortunately, I am free to make him any kind of wonderful man I want. Ha Ha. Can't do THAT in real life, can we!? 1949 men. That was a long long time ago...

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Wade's avatar

I’m all caught up! Still can’t wait for the next chapter. 😉

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

You are my most loyal reader, Wade. This tale is just getting started. Pace yourself! Ha Ha Ha. Do you think two chapters a week is too many? Maybe I should post only one?

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ME's avatar

Bartle is a rare, fine man. Such wisdom.

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Mark Starlin's avatar

Bartle is a rare, fine man. Such wisdom.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Okay, then. You keep reading. i'm going to bed...

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