Discover the Heartfelt Journey of Homecoming in 'Calling Me Home' - A Soul-Stirring Novel

Calling Me Home is a heart-wrenching tale of love, loss, and the enduring power of friendship. Follow Isabelle and Dorrie on their journey towards self-discovery.

Calling Me Home is a novel that will take you on an emotional journey like no other. From the very first page, you'll be captivated by the story of Isabelle McAllister, a white, elderly woman who asks her black hairdresser, Dorrie, to take her on a road trip from Arlington, Texas to Cincinnati, Ohio. What follows is a tale of friendship, love, and the effects of racism on both past and present generations.

The novel is set in two different time periods: the 1930s and the present day. As Isabelle shares her story with Dorrie, we are transported back to a time when interracial relationships were taboo and dangerous. The author, Julie Kibler, does an excellent job of portraying the racial tensions of the era, and the difficulties faced by Isabelle and her African American lover, Robert Prewitt.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Calling Me Home is the way in which it deals with the theme of forbidden love. As a white woman, Isabelle knows that she is breaking the law by being with Robert, but she cannot help the way she feels. The novel explores the consequences of their relationship, both for them and for their families. It is a poignant reminder of the power of love and the lengths that people will go to be together.

Throughout the book, we see how the events of the past continue to affect the present. Dorrie, for example, has her own struggles with race and identity, and her experiences are shaped by the legacy of segregation and discrimination. Isabelle's memories also have a profound impact on her family, particularly her granddaughter, who learns things about her grandmother that she never knew.

As well as being a powerful exploration of race and identity, Calling Me Home is also a beautifully written novel. Kibler's prose is lyrical and evocative, and she has a real talent for capturing the essence of her characters. Isabelle and Dorrie are both complex, fully-realized individuals, and it's impossible not to become invested in their stories.

Another strength of the book is its exploration of the relationships between women. Isabelle and Dorrie's friendship is at the heart of the novel, and it is a testament to the power of female friendship. Kibler also delves into the mother-daughter relationship, as well as the bonds between sisters. It's a celebration of the strength and resilience of women, and the importance of these connections in our lives.

One of the most striking things about Calling Me Home is how relevant it still feels today, despite being set in the past. The novel deals with issues that are still all too prevalent in our society, such as racism, prejudice, and bigotry. It's a reminder that we still have a long way to go in terms of achieving true equality and justice.

The road trip that Isabelle and Dorrie embark on is also an important part of the novel. As they travel through different states and encounter different people, they both learn valuable lessons about themselves and each other. The journey is symbolic of their growth and transformation, and it's a powerful metaphor for life itself.

Overall, Calling Me Home is a deeply moving and thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to connect us to each other, no matter our race or background. If you're looking for a book that will challenge you, inspire you, and move you to tears, then Calling Me Home is the perfect choice.

Introduction

Calling Me Home is a book that will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride. The book is written by Julie Kibler, and it was published in 2013. The story is set in modern-day America but takes us back to the time of racial segregation and the struggle for civil rights. The main characters are Isabelle McAllister, a wealthy white woman in her eighties, and Dorrie Curtis, her African-American hairdresser, who is also a single mother.

The Plot

The book is told through alternating points of view between Isabelle and Dorrie. It begins with Isabelle asking Dorrie to drive her to a funeral in Cincinnati, Ohio, from Texas. What follows is a road trip that takes them through several states and triggers memories of Isabelle's past. As the story unfolds, we learn that Isabelle fell in love with a black man named Robert Prewitt when she was a teenager. Her father disapproved of the relationship, and they were forced to separate. Isabelle eventually married another man, but she never forgot about Robert.

The Theme of Love

The theme of love is central to Calling Me Home. Isabelle's love for Robert is pure and genuine, and it transcends race and societal norms. She is willing to risk everything to be with him, but unfortunately, they are torn apart by circumstances beyond their control. The book shows us that love knows no boundaries and that it can be both beautiful and painful.

Racial Prejudice and Discrimination

The book also explores the issue of racial prejudice and discrimination. Isabelle's father is a racist who believes that black people are inferior to whites. He forbids her from seeing Robert, and when she becomes pregnant, he forces her to have an abortion. The book shows us how racism can destroy lives and tear people apart.

The Characters

The characters in Calling Me Home are well-developed and realistic. Isabelle is a complex character who is struggling to come to terms with her past. She is regretful about the choices she made in life and wishes that she had been braver. Dorrie is a strong and resilient woman who has had to overcome many obstacles in life. She is a devoted mother who will do anything to protect her son.

The Relationship between Isabelle and Dorrie

The relationship between Isabelle and Dorrie is one of the highlights of the book. At first, they seem like an unlikely pair, but as they spend more time together, they develop a deep bond. Isabelle becomes a mentor to Dorrie, and Dorrie helps Isabelle confront her past. The book shows us that friendships can form between people from different backgrounds and that these relationships can be transformative.

The Writing Style

Julie Kibler's writing style is simple yet elegant. She has a way of bringing the characters to life and making the reader care about them. The book is written in a straightforward manner, and it is easy to follow. The pacing is just right, and the plot twists keep the reader engaged.

The Importance of Setting

The setting of the book is also important. The story takes place in modern-day America, but it flashes back to the 1930s and 1940s. The contrast between the two time periods is stark and serves as a reminder of how much progress has been made in the fight for civil rights. The book shows us that even though we have come a long way, there is still work to be done.

The Lessons We Can Learn from Calling Me Home

Calling Me Home is a book that will make you think and feel. It teaches us about the power of love, the destructive nature of racism, and the importance of friendship. The book also shows us that it is never too late to confront our past and make amends.

The Importance of Forgiveness

The book also teaches us about the importance of forgiveness. Isabelle has carried the burden of her past for many years, but by the end of the book, she has learned to forgive herself and others. Forgiveness is a powerful tool that can help us heal and move forward in life.

Conclusion

Calling Me Home is a book that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it. It is a poignant and thought-provoking story about love, race, and friendship. The book reminds us that we are all human beings who deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of the human experience.

A Southern Family's Secrets Unfold in Calling Me Home

Calling Me Home, by Julie Kibler, is an emotionally gripping novel that tells the story of two women from different racial and generational backgrounds as they embark on a road trip to confront their painful pasts. The novel is set in a pre-Civil Rights era Kentucky town, where racism and prejudice were rampant, and social injustice was the norm.

Coming of Age in a Pre-Civil Rights Era Kentucky Town

The novel revolves around the life of Isabelle McAllister, an elderly white woman who hires Dorrie Curtis, a young black hairdresser, to drive her to a funeral in Texas. During the road trip, Isabelle shares the story of her forbidden love affair with Robert Prewitt, a black man, in 1950s Kentucky.

As Isabelle recounts her tale of love and loss, Dorrie realizes that she too has suffered from the same kind of prejudice and racism that plagued Isabelle's life. She begins to understand the deep-seated pain and trauma that Isabelle has carried with her for over half a century.

The Tragic Love Story at the Heart of Calling Me Home

Isabelle's story is one of a tragic love affair that was doomed from the start. Robert Prewitt was a talented musician who played the piano at the local juke joint. Isabelle, a privileged white woman, fell in love with him despite the fact that interracial relationships were taboo in their small town.

Their love affair was met with fierce opposition from their families and the community. They faced threats and violence from those who opposed their relationship. In the end, Robert was brutally beaten and left for dead, and Isabelle was forced to leave town and start a new life.

A Tale of Friendship, Love, and Loss in the Deep South

As Isabelle and Dorrie journey across the country, they form an unlikely friendship that transcends racial and generational divides. They share their hopes, fears, and dreams with each other, and find solace in the fact that they are not alone in their struggles.

Isabelle's story is a testament to the power of love and the courage it takes to stand up against social injustice. Dorrie's story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for a better future.

Confronting Racism and Prejudice in 1950s Kentucky

Calling Me Home offers a poignant look at the harsh realities of life in a pre-Civil Rights era Kentucky town. The novel shows how racism and prejudice were deeply ingrained in the fabric of society, and how they affected the lives of both black and white people.

The novel also highlights the bravery of those who dared to challenge the status quo and fight for equality. Isabelle and Robert's love affair was a bold statement against the racism and segregation that were so prevalent at the time.

The Power of Family and Community in Overcoming Adversity

Despite the challenges they faced, Isabelle and Robert found strength in their love for each other. They were willing to risk everything to be together, even if it meant facing violence and persecution from their community.

Isabelle's family, on the other hand, was not as accepting of her relationship with Robert. Her mother was especially opposed to their love affair, and did everything in her power to break them apart.

However, even in the face of opposition from her family, Isabelle found solace in her friend and confidante, Miss Emma, an elderly black woman who had been a part of her life since childhood. Miss Emma was a constant source of support and encouragement for Isabelle, and helped her through some of the darkest moments of her life.

A Story of Sacrifice and Redemption in Jim Crow America

Calling Me Home is a story of sacrifice and redemption in a time when racial tensions were at an all-time high. Isabelle's decision to leave town and start a new life was a sacrifice that she made for the sake of her love for Robert, and for her own safety.

However, even though she left town, Isabelle never forgot about Robert or the love they shared. Her journey with Dorrie to Texas is a testament to her willingness to confront her past and the pain that it has caused her.

The Emotional Journey of Two Women on a Road Trip to the Past

As Isabelle and Dorrie travel across the country, they are forced to confront their painful pasts and the trauma that they have carried with them for so long. They share their stories with each other, and find comfort in the fact that they are not alone in their struggles.

The road trip becomes a journey of self-discovery for both women, as they come to terms with their pasts and begin to heal from their emotional wounds. Isabelle's story is a reminder that it is never too late to confront the past and seek redemption.

A Heartwarming Story of Love and Courage in the Face of Social Injustice

Calling Me Home is a heartwarming story of love and courage in the face of social injustice. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a better future.

The novel is a tribute to the power of human connection and the healing power of love. Isabelle and Dorrie's friendship transcends racial and generational divides, and serves as a beacon of hope in a world that is often divided by hate and fear.

Overall, Calling Me Home is a beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of love, loss, and redemption in Jim Crow America. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the history of race relations in the United States, and for anyone who believes in the power of love to heal even the deepest emotional wounds.

My Point of View on Calling Me Home Book

Overview

Calling Me Home is a novel written by Julie Kibler, published in 2013. The story highlights the relationship between an elderly white woman and her black hair stylist. It deals with issues such as love, loss, racism, and family secrets.

Pros

The novel is well-written and engaging, making it easy to read and follow the story.
The characters are well-developed, making it easy for readers to connect with them and understand their struggles.
The story sheds light on important social issues such as racism and prejudice, making it thought-provoking and relevant.
The novel has a compelling plot that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end.
The book offers a unique perspective on interracial relationships and the challenges faced by couples in such relationships.

Cons

The novel can be emotionally draining, given the themes of loss and racism that it explores.
The story may not be suitable for some readers due to its sensitive subject matter.
Some readers may find the ending unsatisfying, as it leaves some questions unanswered.

Table Comparison of Characters in Calling Me Home

Main Characters

Character Name	Description
Isabelle McAllister	An elderly white woman who hires Dorrie, a black hair stylist, to drive her from Texas to Ohio. She is tormented by her past and is searching for closure.
Dorrie Curtis	A black hair stylist who is hired by Isabelle to drive her to Ohio. She has her own struggles, including raising a biracial son and dealing with racism.

Secondary Characters

Character Name	Description
Robert McAllister	Isabelle's deceased husband, who was killed in a car accident. He was the love of Isabelle's life.
Ruthie Curtis	Dorrie's teenage daughter who is struggling with her identity as a biracial person.
Minnie Curtis	Dorrie's mother who disapproves of Dorrie's relationship with a white man.

In conclusion, Calling Me Home is a well-written novel that explores important social issues such as racism, prejudice, love, and loss. Although it may not be suitable for all readers, it is a thought-provoking and engaging read that offers a unique perspective on interracial relationships and the challenges faced by couples in such relationships.

Closing Message: Why You Should Read 'Calling Me Home'

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog about 'Calling Me Home' by Julie Kibler. I hope that my review has piqued your interest and convinced you to pick up this book. In this closing message, I'd like to share a few final thoughts on why I think 'Calling Me Home' is such an important and moving novel.

Firstly, I want to emphasize the power of the story's themes. This is a book about love, loss, friendship, and the bonds that tie us together across generations and cultures. It deals with some heavy topics, including racism and discrimination, but it does so with grace and sensitivity. Reading 'Calling Me Home' will make you think, feel, and reflect on your own life and relationships.

Another reason why I recommend this book is the quality of the writing. Julie Kibler's prose is beautiful and evocative, and she has a gift for creating rich and complex characters. The two main protagonists, Isabelle and Dorrie, are both strong and compelling women who you will root for and empathize with throughout their journey. I also appreciated the way that Kibler weaves in historical details and cultural nuances to create a vivid and authentic setting.

If you're looking for a book that will transport you to another time and place, 'Calling Me Home' is a great choice. The novel is set in both present-day Texas and 1930s Kentucky, and the contrast between these two worlds is stark and striking. Kibler does an excellent job of capturing the feel of small-town life in the Jim Crow era, and the challenges that Isabelle faces as a mixed-race woman trying to navigate a hostile and divided society.

One of the things that I admire most about 'Calling Me Home' is the way that it handles difficult subjects with nuance and compassion. This is a book that confronts some uncomfortable truths about race and identity, but it does so in a way that is respectful and thought-provoking. Kibler doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of prejudice and discrimination, but she also shows the resilience and courage of her characters in the face of adversity.

Finally, I want to encourage you to read 'Calling Me Home' because it is a story that will stay with you long after you've finished it. This is the kind of book that lingers in your mind and heart, and that you'll find yourself thinking about days or weeks later. It's a story that invites conversation and reflection, and that has the power to bring people together across divides of race, age, and background.

In conclusion, I highly recommend 'Calling Me Home' to anyone who loves great storytelling, beautiful writing, and thought-provoking themes. This is a book that will make you laugh, cry, and think deeply about the world we live in. So go ahead and add it to your reading list - you won't regret it!