Book Review

The Language of the Sycamores

The Language of the Sycamores by Lisa Wingate, published by New American Library

Reviewed by Mike Shea

January 2005

Buy it at BookPeople

There is nothing subtle about THE LANGUAGE OF SYCAMORES (New American Library), the latest novel from LISA WINGATE, a Central Texas writer who moonlights as an inspirational speaker (or vice versa). Wingate delivers a relentlessly uplifting message in the voice of narrator Karen Sommerfield, who is struggling to weather a series of personal storms. While visiting her sister’s farm, Karen finds unexpected solace and guidance in gems of her late Grandma Rose’s wisdom as channeled by young neighbor Dell. This is not hugely original territory, but Wingate is a skilled writer who betrays a genuine affection for gentle, sentimental homilies. Like-minded readers will swallow The Language of Sycamores whole. Cynics and sinners should seek out heartier fare.

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