Having put off reading A Song of Home for so long I was worried that not rereading the first two Pearl Spence novels, but as soon as I started to read, there she was. I sank right in to Pearl's narration and her life, once again enchanted by her personality and imagination, and once again having my reader's heart broken into tiny pieces.

Through Pearl's eleven year old eyes, author Susie Finkbeiner explores the racial tensions in 1936 Bliss, Michigan and whether a family broken by grief, hardship, and abandonment can ever be patched together again. In a story that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, Pearl's simple faith and enduring spirit shine through.

Susie Finkbeiner's Pearl Spence trilogy are among my favorite novels set during America's Great Depression, with A Song of Home joining their number in great part due to the themes of forgiveness and redemption.

Highly recommended.

This review refers to a paperback copy, along with a digital galley that I voluntarily received via NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.

Finkbeiner is a trailblazer in Christian fiction. Pearl’s story is heartwarming and heart wrenching simultaneously. Perfect for fans of Harper Lee or Julie Cantrell.

I had the pleasure of reading an ARC from Netgalley. I read A Cup of Dust several years ago and enjoyed it so much that I couldn’t wait to read this one as well. It did not disappoint. The characters in this book are so vivid and real that sometimes I felt like I actually knew them, or wished I did anyway. Do yourself a favor and read this book. Thank you Netgalley.

A beautifully written story....loved it. You will too. Pearl’s story is full of fun, loss, sorrow, anger, hope, and more. Susie Finkbeiner has done an outstanding job of filling this book with emotions that draw you deep into the storyline. Pearl has so much to endure in her young life, and you can’t help but feel sorry for her at first. But then you read on, and see what a truly strong and amazing young woman she is.

This book and the two proceeding were absolutely amazing. I was delayed in my initial reading and reviewing of it due to a change in my job. I wasn't able to get to it until summer break, but it was so worth the wait! The story allows you inside the thoughts and emotions of 11 year old Pearl, and it was so much more enjoyable being able to immerse myself into her world while on vacation with few demands to my schedule. I would definitely recommend the entire trilogy.

A Song of Home is a wonderful book about the Dust Bowl era. It shows the reader what times were really like then. Pearl is the main character. She goes through so much since her Mother is not always there for her. Her aunt is so kind and caring . She can depend on her aunt and her mother leaves during part of the book for another man and ends up pregnant. She eventually returns to the family but hurts are left for Pearl. It was a tough time in our history since the economy was not too good. It would have been tough to go through your life and really not know if your Mother would be in or out of your life. It is a well written novel. The author makes the characters very personable.

A beautifully written story....loved it. You will too. Five Stars.

I found Ms. Finkbeiner's voice to be a breath of fresh air. Although I am a new reader to this series, I did not struggle with the story line. I was immediately pulled into Pearl's world. In Pearl, Ms. Finkbeiner has masterfully created a character that is irresistable. This is a story of loss and betrayal, but also of strength, family and love. It is told through the eyes of an eleven year old, who garners wisdom from the adults in her life. She learns that even adults will stumble and need to find their way home. Not only is the author a master of characterization, she has written a story rich with historical detail of the Great Depression and the Swing Era.


I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Finkbeiner's narration is so smooth that it will draw you immediately into the story, which seems to be a simple story of a young girl navigating "coming of age" discoveries.  Then you start to consider all that is happening around her and you realize that she is confronting some of life's biggest issues.  While bigotry, prejudice and abandonment are present in the book, so are wonderful role models, especially Aunt Carrie and her husband and even the town librarian.  Like in previous titles, Pearl finds herself captivated by a famous children's book and what she finds in the novel begins to influence how she interprets her own life.  Music and the radio also  have the same "world-coloring" effect throughout this swing era novel.  I can't end this review without mentioning Pearl's father -- what a model of fathering, love, hard work, and forgiveness.  He will take a honored place in my favorite literary father category, right next to Atticus of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD.  Whenever I review series books, I always mention the added value of reading the whole series in close succession.  How I would have loved to have read Pearl's story all at once from the dust-filled beginning right through to Mama's singing on the last page of book three.  Those who read the first two novels a while ago should be encouraged to start all over and follow Pearl through her entire story. Those who have not read any of the books, you are ready for a big reading treasure!  Get all three books and enjoy.  There is much here for Christian book clubs (and other groups, too) to discuss.  It would also be suitable for late teen readers.  I received a copy of this book from Kregel Publications.  All opinions are mine.

This will not be an easy story to forget. I like that in a book because the author has done their job of transporting readers back to a place some of us have only heard about. It was not easy growing up in the 1930s. . Families struggled to buy food and clothing while scrimping by on low salaries. I remember going to my granddad’s farm in Oklahoma every summer when I was little. He had over 200 acres and I loved being there. Off in the distance sometimes I saw this weird thing in the sky. The sky would turn almost brown as the dust stirred up. I ran into the house and hid under the covers. I was so scared the dust was going to suffocate me. This story stirred so many fond memories of my granddad and I savored every word written. The author is a master of storytelling and I’m sad to see the series end. For me it won’t end for awhile as I can see Pearl standing there in her house talking to Opal and dancing with a smile on her face.

Pearl is a delightful character and there were times I wanted to hug her and tell her she was the sweetest gift from God. The feeling of abandonment she felt when her mom left was devastating. A young girl who has no idea why her mom doesn’t want her is heartbreaking. The author does an excellent job of sharing the emotions Pearl goes through as she learns about prejudice. I love Pearl’s innocence and protective nature towards people she cares about.

I felt drawn to Mary the most because she had endured such heartache. I understood why she felt she needed to leave her home and family . Her pain was so unbearable she wanted to run and never look back. It must have been so hard to leave Pearl and her husband. The emotions and trauma she went through made me cry. As the story was coming to an end I sobbed. Yes I was caught up in a story that took a family through loss, prejudice and judgment. Mary reminded me of the woman who everyone wanted to throw stones at. To carry such a burden made me want to scream at the town. How dare they judge anyone when they should look at themselves first. The ending is a tear jerker and I know somewhere there is a Pearl out there finding out how to forgive . There is a Mary out there somewhere learning to let go and feel loved by her family.

I received a copy of this book from Kregel Publications. The review is my own opinion.

I had heard so many wonderful things about Susie Finkbeiner’s books, and I was intrigued by the subject matter in A Song of Home, which took place in Michigan in the 1930s. What a great read this was! The author is so talented at crafting realistic, engaging, vivid characters that I felt I was right there with them. It was apparent from the first chapter that Ms. Finkbeiner has done extensive research about this time period and the social problems, hardships, and concerns prevalent in everyday life then. I was captivated by the way she got into the 11-year-old mind of Pearl Spence and told the story from her point of view. A theme of hope and forgiveness, which adds depth and meaning to the tale, is seamlessly woven through it. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher/NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Pearl’s story is full of fun, loss, sorrow, anger, hope, and more. Susie Finkbeiner has done an outstanding job of filling this book with emotions that draw you deep into the storyline. Pearl has so much to endure in her young life, and you can’t help but feel sorry for her at first. But then you read on, and see what a truly strong and amazing young woman she is. Sure she has her faults, but given the circumstances I’d say she did pretty good.

Although I love Pearl, I think my favorite character was Opal. She was a delight to read about and I loved the way she interacted with Pearl, kind of taking her under her wing after Mama left. Their discussions about swing dancing were probably my favorites – just a way to lighten the mood and bring some joy into the storyline. I truly respected her character too. When Mama returns, and (unfortunately) kicks Opal out, she handled it so well. When Pearl came to visit her she did not at all bad mouth anyone, but instead held her head high. She was a fine example of how to act and present yourself.

Although out of order, I am going to go back and check out the first two books in this series. It was such a delight to read and I can’t wait to see how it all started! If you have not read any of Susie’s books, I encourage you to give them a try. Her beautiful writing style will captivate your heart and leave you wanting more!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I loved this book and this series! Pearl Spence is a young girl who will capture your heart as you watch her trying to navigate through complex social, cultural and family issues. The characters that Finkbeiner creates are each unique and sincere, they don't have a hint of stereotype and will often surprise you. This story is a pleasure to read through although at times I slammed the book closed and vowed never to pick it up again. I also found myself wiping tears from my eyes as I felt the heartbreak they were experiencing. Each detail is carefully chosen to transport the reader to a time when life was simpler and yet was in no way easier. Bravo!

Author Susie Finkbeiner has hit this one out of the park! Her third book in the series, Susie does an incredible job of developing her characters (who doesn’t love Aunt Carrie!) and setting the scene. With rich historical facts, it’s simple to tell that the era has been well researched. Yet it’s not dry. She writes in such a way that you are immediately drawn into the story and lives of the people. There is a tone, a special something to her writing that few have. I held my breath, laughed, and cried through this book.

Although the main character is a 12 year old girl, this is not a child’s book in any way. Delicate adult subjects are written about and handled well. Pearl struggles with finding her way back to her mother after a series of events, and it reminded me that we all yearn for home. For that place of peace and belonging.

I was so sad to have this series end. But the wonderful thing about a book is that you can always go back and visit again.

I encourage you to read A Song of Home. In fact, I encourage you to read the entire series. You will fall in love with Pearl, Aunt Carrie, and the rest of family.

I took my time in savoring this wonderful novel by Susie Finkbiner.
I didn't want to say goodbye to Pearlie as her daddy's nickname stuck in my mind. Just like Half Pint as Pa called Laura.
I've mentioned that my grandparents lived through the Dust Bowls years but they've never really talked about the Depression other than it was hard.
I've always wondered what life might've been like for them so began to imagine it through Pearl's eyes.
My grandpa was the storyteller in our family. I loved hearing them!!! ( Even though they never stayed the same!) lol!! I think it's what made them special.
Susie Finkbiner is a wonderful story teller who can blend everything in very nicely and make you think that you are in the same room with Pearl and her family.
I've learned some things the hard way like Pearl has. It's one of the reasons I fell in love with Pearl.
Pearl to me is a very special person and I hate saying goodbye to her but I can always go visit her when I reread her story. If you liked Pearls story I'd recommend rereading all three books again!! I know I will because that's how much I enjoyed Susie's stories!!! I hope there is more coming!! She's fast becoming my favorite!!

All I can say is WOW. This book was so good. I had the pleaseure of meeting Susie at a Christian Reader’s retreat last August. She was such a sweet lady! I enjoyed visiting with her and hearing about her books. I had not read them then but they quickly went to the top of my TBR pile. Written in first person, you get to experience life during the 30s through the eyes of Pearl Spence. Pearl is such a spunky girl who’s life has not been easy but perseveres through these difficult days. I loved how realistic this book was and that it clearly protrayed life doing that time. It was tough but also good. I enjoyed learning about this time period. Susie Finkbeiner writes in a way that I can clearly see what’s happening in my mind’s eye. I didn’t want the book to end. I had fallen in love with all the character’s in the previous books and couldn’t wait to see what happened next. Susie Finkbeiner weaves such a great message of forgiveness, love and hope throughout this book. I love how it’s a story based on Susie’s grandmother. Family history is fascinating and I enjoy hearing about their lives. I wish that there was more books in this series. I look forward to reading more from Susie!

I recommend this book to my family and friends.

I received this book from the publisher to review and give my honest opinion.

This book is a beautiful tapestry of characters, setting, and plot.

Pearl. Can I just say I love this character? Spunky, curious, and oh so vulnerable. She's a perfect balance between being innocent and innocently devious. Combine that with an imperfect, but loving father and you have a great set up for a plot.

The setting is just the finishing touch. Historical flourishes add color and depth to an already great book. I highly recommend this book (as well as the other two in this series).

I must admit that I haven't read the first two books in this series. I don't feel that it was required to get the book but it may have helped a little with the way the story sort of jumped right in.
Overall I was pleased with this story and do plan to go ba k and read the others.
The detail of the writing is wonderful. You can really immerse yourself into the timing of this book. Well done!

ho has captivated this reader's heart and will not easily be forgotten. The book could be read as a stand-alone novel but there is so much more to Pearl's story in the previous two books (A Cup of Dust and A Trail of Crumbs) that I encourage readers to begin at the beginning. In this final book of the series, the author tackles the gritty subjects of racism, depression, adultery, abandonment, and grief and does it well. The richness of the characters and their emotions is genuine and deeply moving, resonating within the reader. Aunt Carrie, compassionate and wise; Tom, Pearl's daddy, who loves his 'darlin' (I loved that affectionate nickname!) with a steadfast love; Ray, her special friend, and each of the other characters bring so much into the story. Readers will get caught up in the lives of these characters and their stories. The author has captured well the setting and era of A Song of Home as she has expertly written the distinctive dialogue and descriptive scenes of the book. Poignant and intense, this character-driven story takes the reader into the heart and soul of one sweet child and her journey to a place she knows is home. Don't miss the chance to fall in love with Pearl and her family--get the Pearl Spence series and read them.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

Vivid, heart-mending, like coming home after a long journey. I closed A Song of Home with a beautiful blend of emotions. I have a full heart because of story well-told, more than a hint of sadness that this Pearl's last story, and yet a deep contentment at how events unfolded for her. I know that there is no way that I can possibly do Pearl justice in this review, but I’ll do my best. I stretched out this book for as long as I could, but the farther I got, the faster I seemed to read. I hated to put it down, yet despaired as the heft of the book moved from right to left, until I came to that last page. Pearl is one of the most delightful characters I've ever met; her character is strong and compelling. The first-person narrative is authentic, giving me the feeling that I'm listening to a grown up Pearl telling the story of her childhood. There are things she responds to in a mature way, but at the same time, her youth is still evident in her thoughts and emotions.

Pearl and her family have been through a great deal, escaping the Dust Bowl and moving on after a terrible loss. Though the events in this story could perhaps be labeled as quieter in nature, they are no less important and impactful on Pearl’s life. More time is devoted to Pearl's character development, as well as focusing on real family issues that people face every day. Add to that the tension and prejudices of the time, and you get a story full of emotion and heart. The setting of Bliss, Michigan, gives a perfect backdrop to the story. It’s a town made of real people, those noble and kind, and those not so kind. Then there are those who are just trying to make up for their past mistakes, in a place where memory runs deep. I loved that this story delves more into Bliss’s history, especially as it pertains to past events that shaped Aunt Carrie into the person she becomes in Pearl’s life. I think what I loved most about this story is the promise of reconciliation between Pearl and her mother. As in real life, reconciliation is sometimes hard-won, but always, always, worth it. Though Finkbeiner doesn’t shy away from the hard things, there is always a persistent measure of hope in the trial.

In my heart and mind, Pearl lives on, helping in the library, then maybe even gets a job there in high school, then she grows up to be a writer and marries her best friend, Ray. The best kinds of characters are the ones that live on in my heart and mind, and Pearl will certainly do that. I feel like I’m saying goodbye to Pearl in the same way that she has to say goodbye to friends she loves – knowing that her story has ended well and will end well wherever she ends up in life, knowing that I can surely see her again by picking up one of her stories, and it will be just like visiting an old, dear, friend.

Do start with the first book in the series, A Cup of Dust. There is such a nuanced feeling to the story because I’ve known Pearl from the beginning, and I think that’s only as strong as it is because of having read her story as a whole. Not only is this one of my favorite historical fiction series, it’s one of my favorite series in general. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy strong characterization and coming of age stories.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher, which I chose to review. This review is my honest opinion.