Rating: 
Summary: my review
Review: This is a story of a woman who grows up in Sullivan's Island, South Carolina. However, she decided to live her life in a big city. After many years and struggles, she realizes that she no longer dreams of the big city, but actually needs the proximity of her native town and her family.I had a great time reading this book. The main character, Susan, is so real she could be your sister or your friend, or even yourself! The author gives incredible truth and life to her characters. They all interact in a very real-like way. You feel their happiness, pains and ever hardships. Great novel, easy to read and very enjoyable.
Rating: 
Summary: So-So
Review: I think you have to be from Sullivan's Island or at least from somewhere in South Carolina to enjoy this book. It was an OK read but not one I would recommend to friends.
Rating: 
Summary: A fine read
Review: Not since I read "The Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood" have I had such a good time with a book! In fact, every place I go, people are talking about "Sullivan's Island." I often get email from writers telling me about this wonderful new author they have discovered! I can honestly say I am sorry I have read the book -- I wish I had that pleasure awaiting me. Thank you, Dottie Frank, for writing "Sullivan's Island!" You gave me an enjoyable trip back to the Lowcountry I so loved growing up in South Carolina. Kudos! Cappy Hall-Rearick, President Southeastern Writers Association, Inc.
Rating:
Summary: A Wonderful First Novel
Review: This book was terrific. I could not put it down. I would place Dorothea Benton Frank in the same category as Pat Conroy. She has the potential to be the new voice of southern women writers. Her book captures what it means to be a woman from the south, and more importantly to be a woman raised during the turbulent sixties. I could really relate! I can't wait for her next novel!
Rating:
Summary: One of the Best Inexpensive Therapies Yet!
Review: I am now on my third reading of this wonderful story. It was given to me by my mother, and we have discussed it many times. It made us laugh, as well as cry. Most of all I related to the true humanity of the characters, who were "real people", as the majority of us are. I will read it many times I'm sure, and pass it along to the special people in my life. Mrs. Frank has a gift, and I'm thankful for her method of expression. I hope to see more of her work in the very near future, as reading this book was true therapy for my soul.
Rating:
Summary: A real "keeper"
Review: I finished SULLIVAN'S ISLAND 3 days ago, and the characters have stayed with me constantly. I'm almost sad to have left them behind. I'll go to my reading chair with anticipation, only to realize with disappointment that the book's over. This story, with its wonderful cast of real characters, is a gripping tale of growing up and finding oneself amongst the craziness of life. I laughed and cried and several times thought, "gosh, I _know_ that person." I do wish we could have learned more about the father's death, and the conclusion of Susan's investigation--I thought it was wrapped up a bit quickly. Otherwise, I can still smell that salt water and the feel of the gritty sand under my feet. If Ms. Benton Frank doesn't give me a new book to read soon, I'm going to end up as one of those dreaded summer tourists on Sullivan's Island in the very near future.
Rating:
Summary: Sullivan's Island - A Lowcountry Tale
Review: I am always in search of new authors who know how to tell a tale that is both compelling and well-written--in this book I found both. Ms. Frank had me laughing from the onset - the voice of Susan is wry and a welcome contrast to the seriousness of some of the subject matter. While touching on the painful episodes in Susan's life (betrayal by her husband, a painful divorce, a traumatic childhood), Ms. Franks artfully interjects enough humor to make these crises bearable and teaches the invaluable lesson that humor can get us through some of our darker moments. I read this while on vacation in Florida - a lucky find at the local bookstore - and finished it within 2 days. Reminiscent of Anne River Siddons' "Colony" - my favorite of her books. I hope that Ms. Franks will grace us with another book soon.
Rating:
Summary: The perfect escape...
Review: I loved this book. I was looking for something new and I found a goldmine. I was able to really escape into this story. It was a delicious read. I read part of it while sitting oceanside in Florida--perfect! Ms. Frank, I hope you have more books planned. Hurry, hurry!
Rating:
Summary: Great Read
Review: A great book, especially for the summer and the beach. Enjoyable characters, and a very interesting plot, with a touch of warmth and humor. I really enjoyed this book and am eagerly awaiting another (hopefully) installment. I loved the 'geechee' in the girls, and the strength the women needed during that turbulent time.
Rating:
Summary: Ho Hum -- Pat Conroy imitation
Review: When I read Pat Conroy's "endorsement" -- essentially that he and Ms. Frank come from and write about the same area, I was skeptical; it sounded like he couldn't think of anything truly positive to say. Now I understand. Ms. Frank's writing style is pedestrian; I bought it to read on a flight and will only finish it since I've invested this much time in it. The similiarities between this story and Conroy's writing, as far as theme (abusive father, useless mother, big hurricanes, etc.) seem downright plagaristic. But the difference is that Conroy writes true literature -- every sentence is poetic. This is a cheap imitation. The protagonist's sudden decision to become a newspaper columnist, when there has been absolutely NO mention prior of her having any talent or skill in that area was just plain silly. This book makes me want to sit down at my word processor and give fiction writing a try. The story itself isn't bad (aside from it's being a Conroy duplication) but the writing is nothing special. ............................ I'll finish it before donating it to the local library.
| 
