30 Day Book Challenge--Day 5: What is a book that makes you happy?

Do you want to smile? Then you absolutely must read Cold Sassy Tree, by Olive Ann Burns. It is an all-American novel any literature fan would enjoy.

Set in the south, just after the turn of the century (1906, that is), Cold Sassy Tree is a coming-of-age story about the young Will Tweedy.

The story opens as Will Tweedy's grandpa--a recently widowed pillar of the community--shocks friends and family by eloping with Miss Love Simpson. Not only is Miss Simpson a beauty of half his age, she's a Yankee to boot!

With the subtle irreverence, Burns skillfully address issues of racism, class-ism, and Christian hypocrisy. Your heart will be warmed, your spirits will be lifted, and you might just laugh out loud.

Absolutely entertaining from cover to cover, Cold Sassy Tree is a rare treasure of a read.