Lenward E. Thomas

Before the Leaves Fall Lenward E. Thomas

Before the Leaves Fall is a novel set in eastern North Carolina during the depression years. "Leaves" is about a family struggling under adverse condition through hard work, sacrifices and a strong desire for dedication to family. They learn to endure hardships as they struggle with the fear tactics of the Ku Klux Klan in their community Willie Mae, a biracial infant, is thrusts into the arms of a mother who later dies, leaving her at an early age to assume the full responsibility of raising three siblings. To survive the social struggles, Willie Mae is blessed later with a biracial stepmother who teaches her the graces to overcome prejudices in a mixed society. Love between Willie Mae and Jed-a white neighbor, is a reminder that love is possible at any time, or age, and under all situations.. A strong dedication to bring two families together resonates throughout the novel and demonstrates there is no limit what love can accomplish.