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Overview of the Novel
Before We Were Yours is a fictionalized account inspired by the infamous real-life scandal involving Georgia Tann, a Memphis-based child trafficker who operated the Tennessee Children's Home Society from the 1930s to the 1950s. Tann's organization kidnapped children, often from impoverished families, and sold or placed them into adoptive homes across the country, often with false documentation. Lisa Wingate’s narrative captures the horrors of this scheme through the eyes of characters who experienced its trauma firsthand, as well as through modern characters uncovering their family secrets.
The novel alternates between two timelines:
- The story of Rill Foss and her siblings in the 1930s, who are victims of Georgia Tann’s kidnapping ring.
- The contemporary story of Avery Stafford, a young lawyer in Charleston, South Carolina, who uncovers her family’s hidden past linked to the Tennessee Children's Home Society.
This dual narrative serves to emphasize the lasting impact of past traumas and the importance of uncovering truth and healing.
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Main Characters and Their Journeys
Rill Foss and Her Siblings
Rill Foss is a young girl living along the Mississippi River with her family in the 1930s. Her story is one of resilience in the face of unimaginable cruelty. When the authorities come to take her family’s children, Rill tries desperately to protect her siblings. She is forcibly separated from her family and placed into the care of Georgia Tann, where she endures emotional and physical hardships. Her journey symbolizes the pain of losing one's family and identity, but also highlights her strength and determination to survive.
Key points about Rill’s story:
- She is a young girl who fiercely loves her family.
- She is kidnapped along with her siblings by Georgia Tann’s organization.
- Her resilience allows her to survive the traumatic separation and attempt to reunite with her family later in life.
Avery Stafford and Her Discovery
Avery Stafford is a successful lawyer and the granddaughter of a prominent Southern family. Her story begins with her returning to her hometown in Charleston after her grandfather’s death. She begins to investigate her family history, uncovering secrets about her grandmother, May Crandall, who had kept her past hidden. As Avery digs deeper, she learns about her family’s connection to the Tennessee Children's Home Society and the tragic story of Rill Foss.
Key points about Avery’s story:
- She is unaware of her family’s dark past initially.
- Her investigation reveals her grandmother’s involvement with Georgia Tann.
- Her journey represents the search for identity, truth, and closure.
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The Historical Context: The
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main plot of 'Before We Were Yours'?
The novel tells the story of a young girl named Rill Foss who is kidnapped along with her siblings and placed in a corrupt orphanage, revealing the dark history of child trafficking and the impact on her family across generations.
Who are the primary characters in 'Before We Were Yours'?
The main characters include Rill Foss, her siblings, and present-day Georgia Tann, a powerful and corrupt orphanage director, as well as Avery Stafford, a woman who uncovers her family's hidden past.
What historical period does 'Before We Were Yours' cover?
The novel spans from the 1930s during the Great Depression to contemporary times, highlighting the history of child adoption and trafficking during that era.
Is 'Before We Were Yours' based on real events?
Yes, the novel is inspired by true stories of Georgia Tann, a notorious child trafficker who operated an adoption scandal in Memphis, Tennessee, in the mid-20th century.
What are the main themes explored in 'Before We Were Yours'?
The novel explores themes of family, identity, loss, betrayal, and the enduring impact of past secrets on present lives.
How does the book's structure enhance its storytelling?
The book alternates between the past and present, allowing readers to see how historical events affect the characters in contemporary times and deepening the emotional impact.
What is the significance of the title 'Before We Were Yours'?
The title reflects the story's focus on children who were taken from their families before they could understand or remember their true origins, emphasizing themes of loss and belonging.
How has 'Before We Were Yours' been received by readers and critics?
The novel has received positive reviews for its compelling storytelling, emotional depth, and historical accuracy, resonating strongly with readers interested in family secrets and historical injustices.
Are there any adaptations of 'Before We Were Yours'?
Yes, the novel was adapted into a feature film released in 2019, bringing the powerful story to a wider audience through visual storytelling.
