Introduction

Set against the turmoil of post Civil War America, Sweet Song tells a tender, raw and provocative story of Leon, the mixed race son of a white landowner and a black house servant. Leon, who is raised black but an outcast from both cultures, finds himself suddenly on his own—and passing for white. Searching for his place in the dynamic, violent world of 19th century Pennsylvania, he encounters a gang of dispossessed thieves, mill workers, saloonkeepers, musicians, businessmen, thugs, freedom loving idealists and malevolent racists—a vivid panorama from America’s multifarious past. He endures hardship and makes passionate connections, all the while wrestling with his divided heritage in a world where honesty, even with his friends, might prove fatal. This archetypal American story of self-discovery will stay with the reader for a very long time.

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Excerpt

They were a noisy bunch while they were happy, telling stories as they cooked and ate.
Perhaps it was the lowering of the sun, the filling of their stomachs, or only that they ran out of happy stories, but as darkness approached a depressing and sorrowful tone came over their conversations. ... view entire excerpt...

Discussion Questions

From the publisher:

1. What’s going on between Leon and Bess and why? How does it affect Bess’ relationship with Big Leon? With Martha?
2. What’s Martha’s relationship with Leon and the family? What’s her role in the family? How does she feel about Big Leon? About Bess?
3. Do you get the feeling that in another time and place Bess and Mr. Carpenter would have a different relationship?
4. After Mr. Carpenter’s son dies, why does he want Leon to take his son’s place? What might be behind this choice?
5. Why is Hillary so interested in Leon? What is she acting out?
6. What is the significance of Leon’s time with the roamers? Why does he change his name?
7. What does singing do for Leon? How does it affect his life?
8. What do you think Hugh’s secret is? Why can’t he tell Leon?
9. What is it about Jenny that makes Leon want to tell the truth?
10. Is the ending satisfying? Has Leon’s adventure been resolved satisfactorily?

Weblinks

»	Author Terry Persun's official web site
»	Read the book for free on the publisher's web site
»	Author magazine interview with Terry Persun

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