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Dollbaby: a Novel

Dollbaby: A Novel - Laura Lane McNeal

Ibby discovered she had a grandmother just a few months ago and now, her mother is dropping her at Fannie’s while she figures things out.  Clutching her father remains, Ibby arrives in New Orleans, unaware how her arrival will affect the household.

 

There were many layers to this novel which added to its enjoyment.  Just when I thought things were smoothing out, something else would pop up and add to the drama.  The novel takes place in New Orleans in the 1960’s where Fannie has settled and she has a few individuals helping her out.  

 

Fannie is an outspoken tough, gambling woman who begins to change slowly when Ibby comes into her life.  Queenie came with the house when it was bought many years ago and she arrives every morning with her daughter, Dollbaby to tend to the house.  Dollbaby, has her own daily responsibilities in the house, as she works alongside her mother.  I noticed right away that there seemed to be a mutual understanding and respect between Queenie, Dollbaby and Fannie as they had a great relationship, considering the region and the time period. 

 

Ibby arrival added to the peaceful flow of this household.  It was entertaining to see what this twelve-year-old girl could do as she gets accustomed to the South.  A quiet girl when she arrived, Ibby begins to have a voice and she uses it.  I feel that Ibby’s experience in the South has given her insight and judgement and that by living with her grandmother, she has been given her some options which some other individuals don’t have.  There are family secrets that have been hidden and buried for many years.  These secrets of the past have a powerful message for the present. 

 

I don’t want to give too much away for this fantastic book. I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it!