Super Short Summary

The Keepers of the House by Shirley Ann Grau follows the Howland family through several generations in rural Alabama, addressing changing societal norms, race relations, and the hypocrisy of racism from the pre- to post-Civil War era, with a focus on the relationship between William Howland and Margaret, and their descendants. The story explores tensions that arise when the legitimacy of mixed-race relationships is disclosed, challenging entrenched customs. This narrative includes themes related to racism.