49 pages • 1 hour read
Ava's Man
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Book Brief
272
Book • Nonfiction
American South • 1920s-1940s
2001
Adult
18+ years
1150L
Super Short Summary
Ava's Man by Rick Bragg chronicles the life of Charlie Bundrum, the author's maternal grandfather, through stories shared by family and friends. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and the evolving South, the book explores Charlie’s unique survival tactics, such as fishing and distilling whiskey, while capturing his relationship with his wife Ava and their children, and the personal impact of socioeconomic changes. Throughout the narrative, Charlie faces challenges like poverty and clashes with the law due to shifting societal norms.
Nostalgic
Emotional
Gritty
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
8,686 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Rick Bragg's Ava's Man is lauded for its heartfelt storytelling and vivid depiction of the author's grandfather, Charlie Bundrum. Critics praise Bragg's lyrical prose and rich Southern atmosphere. Some reviewers, however, note the narrative occasionally wanders, affecting its pace. The portrait of rural life and complex characters remains a powerful highlight.
Who Should Read Ava's Man?
Readers who relish Southern American tales, rich storytelling, and familial legacies will enjoy Ava's Man by Rick Bragg. Comparable to works like North Toward Home by Willie Morris and The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, it appeals to those who appreciate memoirs imbued with cultural history and personal resilience.
8,686 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ava Bundrum
Ava Bundrum
Charlie’s wife and the narrator’s grandmother, noted for her outspoken nature and partnership with Charlie, engaging fully in the demanding life they share.
Margaret Bundrum
Margaret Bundrum
One of Charlie and Ava's daughters and the narrator's mother, characterized by her gentle demeanor and close bond with her father.
Jessie Clines (Hootie)
Jessie Clines (Hootie)
A peculiar older man whom Charlie befriends while fishing, eventually becoming part of the Bundrum family due to Charlie's kindness.
Rick Bragg
Rick Bragg
The narrator of the story, motivated to document his grandfather Charlie's life after learning about him from his family as an adult.
272
Book • Nonfiction
American South • 1920s-1940s
2001
Adult
18+ years
1150L
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