The Wonder Boy of Whistle Stop
A Novel
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4.5 • 361 Ratings
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- $4.99
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- $4.99
Publisher Description
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • A heartwarming novel about secrets of youth rediscovered, hometown memories, and the magical moments in ordinary lives, from the beloved author of Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe
“A gift, a blessing and a triumph . . . celebrates the bonds of family and friends—and the possibilities of recovery and renewal.”—The Free Lance–Star
Bud Threadgoode grew up in the bustling little railroad town of Whistle Stop with his mother, Ruth, church-going and proper, and his Aunt Idgie, the fun-loving hell-raiser. Together they ran the town’s popular Whistle Stop Cafe, known far and wide for its fun and famous fried green tomatoes. And as Bud often said of his childhood to his daughter Ruthie, “How lucky can you get?”
But sadly, as the railroad yards shut down and Whistle Stop became a ghost town, nothing was left but boarded-up buildings and memories of a happier time.
Then one day, Bud decides to take one last trip, just to see what has become of his beloved Whistle Stop. In so doing, he discovers new friends, as well as surprises about Idgie’s life, about Ninny Threadgoode and other beloved Fannie Flagg characters, and about the town itself. He also sets off a series of events, both touching and inspiring, which change his life and the lives of his daughter and many others. Could these events all be just coincidences? Or something else? And can you really go home again?
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Flagg's memorable cast returns to Whistle Stop, Ala., made famous in Fried Green Tomatoes, in this heartfelt saga. As the characters age, they reflect on the 1930s, when the town was a lively, bustling place but time hasn't been kind to the hamlet, and it has become decrepit. In its heyday, Dot Weems ran the post office and published a town newsletter ("No gossip, just the plain facts, folks!"), and best friends Ruth and Idgie ran the Whistle Stop Cafe. Over time, townspeople scatter yet remain connected by Dot's yearly holiday letters. In 1985, Ruth's granddaughter, Ruthie, gets engaged to Brooks, an Atlanta society man. Shortly after Brooks dies of a heart attack in 2013, their two children leave Atlanta, and Ruthie receives a call from her father Bud's retirement community saying Bud's gone missing. As it happens, Bud is on his way back to Whistle Stop, propelled by memories of the past; meanwhile, his disappearance becomes a major news story, and Evelyn, a wealthy friend of one of Bud's deceased relatives, hears about Bud's disappearance and forms a friendship with Ruthie that changes both of their lives. Flagg's multitude of fans will enjoy reminiscing and learning more secrets from her well-known protagonists.
Customer Reviews
Charming and beautiful in every way!
Fannie Flagg never disappoints!
Fried green tomatoes part two!
I loved every second of this book! I actually bought a real paperback copy of this book and devoured it in like two weeks!
TAKES ME BACK TO SIMPLER TIMES
This is one of the most endearing books I have ever read. To me, it is a classic look back in time, whether you grew up in the 40’s or 50’s. The characters are all ones you can relate to, and so real. If you happen to be from the south, you will really identify with the places and situations, however, it resonates with anyplace you grew up in America. This is a home run, and I hope Fanny Flagg gives us more in the future. May Dot, Buddy, Idgie, Evelyn, Ruthie, and all the rest of the gang in Whistle Stop Rest In Peace. I loved you all. Please don’t pass up this book if you relish the simpler times of your life.
Jack H, Utah