The Dry Grass of August

By: Anna Jean Mayhew

Narrated by: Karen White

In this beautifully written debut, Anna Jean Mayhew offers a riveting depiction of Southern life in the throes of segregation and what it will mean for a young girl on her way to adulthood - and for the woman who means the world to her.

On a scorching day in August 1954, 13-year-old Jubie Watts leaves Charlotte, North Carolina, with her family for a Florida vacation. Crammed into the Packard along with Jubie are her three siblings, her mother, and the family’s black maid, Mary Luther. For as long as Jubie can remember, Mary has been there - cooking, cleaning, compensating for her father’s rages and her mother’s benign neglect, and loving Jubie unconditionally.

Bright and curious, Jubie takes note of the anti-integration signs they pass and of the racial tension that builds as they journey further south. But she could never have predicted the shocking turn their trip will take. Now, in the wake of tragedy, Jubie must confront her parents’ failings and limitations, decide where her own convictions lie, and make the tumultuous leap to independence.

Infused with the intensity of a changing time, here is a story of hope, heartbreak, and the love and courage that can transform us from child to adult, wounded to indomitable.

©2011 Anna Jean Mayhew (P)2011 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

“A haunting debut…Ms. Mayhew creates authentic characters and a Southern setting that will make you feel and smell a summer day from half a century ago.” (Karen White, New York Times best-selling author)

great story

narration keeps you listening. solid story, though heartbreaking at times. characters are realistically fleshed out.

Cultural reminders

As a person born in 1959, this book was a reminder of so many common things that were a part of everyday life back then. Unfortunately, it was also a heartbreaking story of inequality, racism, and the still existent power and entitlements of white men. Very well written from the perspective of a young teenaged girl whose heart could see no color differences. A good read.

good Story

great story the flow of it went really well I enjoyed the whole thing it was sad there was happy I cried I laughed

Not a bad read, but read better!

story goes along like something big is going to happen but never does. Enjoyed the story enougb to not regret the time spent listening to it. Thought it might be a little more adulterated than it was.

A sad but moving story

I especially enjoyed Junes relationship with Mary. It was genuine and loving. It was a welcome change to how some American authors depict the relationship between a black maid and a white child she cares for. I enjoyed the book.

A good Binge read!

This book definitely delivered. Great story plus good narrator = a win
I would definitely recommend!

Not much of a plot

This was an ok book. I wouldn’t stretch to call it “historical fiction” it read more like a teenagers very detailed diary. I’m glad I didn’t have to pay for it.

Good story

I really enjoyed listening to The Dry Grass of August. I finished it in one day.

No Real Ending

I was enjoying this book. The narration is wonderful. The pace was leisurely, like a float along in a stream. I was interested to see where the story would go. Then it suddenly stopped without really going anywhere. The events of the last few chapters were rushed, like the author had a deadline to meet so happenings came out of nowhere. And then it abruptly stopped. I really wish the book had continued to a true climax & resolution.

It still is unfathomable to me.

I just don’t understand how the depravity of man can be directed at another human being based on color, religion or sex. How can you treat someone so disparagingly? Why? I’ve never understood it.
I remember a sweet lady who helped my mama after she had surgery. Her name was Flossie. I NEVER saw my mama or daddy treat Flossie any other way than with respect and kindness. Mama picked up Flossie because mama didn’t want Flossie walking to our house. Mama said it was to far and wasn’t kind to expect Flossie to walk that far. Mama and Flossie laughed and talked together. I loved Flossie too!
I just can’t fathom being disrespectful much less hurting someone!
All these memories came back to me while listening to the book. I enjoyed it very much!! The writer appeals to all five of your senses. She really brings the story to life. I’m glad she wrote it to remind us what is was like back then. It breaks my heart to think those things happened. I just can’t fathom it.