Tumbling

By: Diane McKinney-Whetstone

Narrated by: Myra Lucretia Taylor

Tumbling is a national best seller from an exhilarating new voice in African-American fiction. Set in Philadelphia in the 1940s and 50s, this emotionally inspiring story revolves around Noon and Herbie, a couple with more than a few obstacles to overcome. They raise two girls left on their doorstep, struggle to keep their unconsummated marriage alive, and fight to save their urban neighborhood from development.

Both Noon and Herbie have secrets. Because of this she can’t be intimate with her husband, and he sneaks out to a hot jazz singer named Ethel - who has a secret of her own. When the city proposes to build a road through their neighborhood, Noon begins a crusade to keep it from happening - and maybe save her marriage in the process.

Tumble into this amazing novel and feel the love and warmth of a special block in South Philly. This is an extraordinary depiction of the true meaning of family and fellowship, with a realistic mix of both joy and sorrow.

©1996 Diane McKinney-Whetstone (P)2001 Recorded Books

You'll Want to Listen in One Sitting

If you could sum up Tumbling in three words, what would they be?

Reaping what you have sown.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Probably, Herbie or Noon. Herbie because of his patience. Noon because of her open arms in difficult situations.

What does Myra Lucretia Taylor bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Her voice is absolutely perfect. Each character uniquely portrayed.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Cry. So much drama, but the family togetherness balanced this book.

Great story

I love books like this. I didn’t want it to end. Great story and narration. I will be looking for more books from her.

Family, Friends, and Community (and Frenemies)

I really enjoyed this book. Wasn’t sure what to expect but the author is very gifted with writing and the dialogue was really amazing. Such a relatable story that weaved in personal and realistic struggles that generations have dealt with and still managed to survive. I will continue reading this author’s works.

Ethel

What a great book. I put it up there withThe Darkest Child. Ethel did the best she could by stepping back. Herbie..smdh. I loved Noon & the whole story..it reminded me of the stories I grew up hearing.

Family Tiex

This story is a good read and great example of family commitment and a community working together.

A Mother's Love

Ms. Whetstone has done it again. she is such a wonderful storyteller. I really enjoyed listening to this book, her writing was so vivid, descriptive and clear. I felt transported back to 1940's Southside of Philly.

Captivating

Once I got started, it was hard to out this one down. The characters were interesting and well rounded, the writing is descriptive and relatable while weaving a story that really brought my imagination into the moment. And this narration was CHEFS KISS amazing!

Touching

I laughed, I teared up, my soul feels soothed. I rooted for each family member equally and loathed the Reverend and that Slick Willie Mann! The characters developed nicely and I could not believe that one narrator did all of the voices. This book goes down as one of my all time favorites!

Great Story

I loved everything about this novel. What a great story of redemption. I would listen to Myra Lucretia Taylor read the phone book! She gives life to every character

Very interesting book.

Couldn't stop listening. Very well written and performed. Took me back to the time when many neighborhoods in the USA were faced with urban renewal.