Podcast Summary: From the Front Porch – Episode 520: "What Would Susie Read?"

Release Date: March 13, 2025
Host: Annie Jones, Owner of The Bookshelf, Thomasville, Georgia
Guest: Susie Butterworth, Annie’s mother

Introduction

In Episode 520 of "From the Front Porch," host Annie Jones welcomes her beloved mother, Susie Butterworth, back to the show to discuss a curated selection of books tailored for readers with PG-13 tastes. The episode delves into a diverse array of literary genres, including historical fiction, contemporary tales, and heartwarming narratives, all chosen to align with Susie's preference for stories with reduced language, violence, and sexual content.

Book Discussions

1. The Sunflower House by Adriana Allegri

Synopsis:
The Sunflower House is a historical fiction novel set during World War II. It portrays the transformation of a house into a sanctuary for soldiers, featuring Aryan women who entertain visiting soldiers. The narrative intertwines themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience against the backdrop of wartime turmoil.

Discussion Highlights:

• Susie expresses initial hesitation due to the book's graphic wartime descriptions but acknowledges its profound storytelling.
• Annie likens the book to "The Handmaid's Tale" set against World War II, highlighting its dark and compelling nature.

Notable Quote:

"It's the Handmaid's Tale set against World War II. [...] It's dark."
— Susie Butterworth [06:01]

2. The Time of the Child by Niall Williams

Synopsis:
Set in winter on an Irish island, this novel follows a doctor and his adult daughter, Ronnie, as they navigate life in a small village. The story takes a heartwarming turn when Ronnie discovers a baby left at their doorstep, leading to themes of love, secrecy, and community.

Discussion Highlights:

• Susie praises the book's slow-paced, descriptive narrative, recommending it as a perfect escape from the world's chaos.
• Annie reflects on how fiction can offer a safe space to engage with complex emotions and scenarios.

Notable Quote:

"It's just a warm, touching story about Ronnie who didn't marry her first love, so she stayed at home and never married. And how she falls in love with and cares for this baby."
— Susie Butterworth [12:20]

3. Ordinary Time by Annie B. Jones

Synopsis:
An introspective collection of essays, Ordinary Time explores themes such as friendship, spiritual growth, and life in a small town. Annie B. Jones delves into personal experiences, offering insights into maintaining relationships and finding joy in everyday moments.

Discussion Highlights:

• Susie commends her daughter’s writing, emphasizing the book's universal appeal despite its specific focus on faith and small-town life.
• The conversation touches on the importance of self-care and embracing one’s true self.

Notable Quote:

"If you weren't my daughter and I picked up that book, my mothering instincts would still kick in. I know how she feels about this."
— Susie Butterworth [15:46]

4. The Story She Left Behind by Patty Callahan Henry

Synopsis:
This historical fiction novel alternates between South Carolina and London, following a young mother whose own mother mysteriously disappears. The protagonist uncovers secrets and unravels her family's past, blending elements of mystery and rich descriptive storytelling.

Discussion Highlights:

• Susie admires Patty Callahan Henry's ability to create immersive settings, likening her books to potential movie adaptations.
• The narrative's dual settings and generational storytelling are highlighted as standout features.

Notable Quote:

"Her covers are beautiful. [...] I flew through it. It was so good."
— Susie Butterworth [29:55]

5. What Happened to the McCraes

Synopsis:
A contemporary fiction piece that delves into the life of a seemingly perfect couple experiencing a sudden divorce. The story unravels the complexities behind their separation, set within the intimate confines of a small town where everyone knows each other's business.

Discussion Highlights:

• Susie notes the book's portrayal of dysfunctional family dynamics and the challenges of maintaining privacy in a tight-knit community.
• The narrative’s exploration of personal struggles and redemption resonates deeply with both host and guest.

Notable Quote:

"It's redemptive. [...] It comes all back together and you learn a lot about what happened to them."
— Susie Butterworth [38:20]

6. Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

Synopsis:
Let Them Theory is a self-help book that emphasizes the importance of letting go and focusing on self-improvement. Mel Robbins offers practical advice on embracing individuality, fostering healthy relationships, and overcoming personal obstacles.

Discussion Highlights:

• Susie appreciates the book’s straightforward, common-sense approach to personal growth, despite its simplistic premise.
• The effectiveness of repetitive reinforcement in internalizing positive behaviors is discussed.

Notable Quote:

"She has taken this... she's interviewed enough people, she's lived enough life to know we have to hear it over and over."
— Susie Butterworth [44:16]

7. A Separate Peace by John Knowles

Synopsis:
A classic novel set in a New England boarding school during World War II, A Separate Peace explores the intense friendship between two boys, one a brainiac and the other a charming jock. The story delves into themes of jealousy, identity, and the loss of innocence.

Discussion Highlights:

• Susie expresses surprise and delight at reading this classic, highlighting its emotional depth and portrayal of male friendship.
• Annie emphasizes the rarity and beauty of narratives focusing on male bonds.

Notable Quote:

"We never hear of male friendships. [...] It is a love story."
— Susie Butterworth [41:33]

Insights and Reflections

Throughout the episode, Annie and Susie engage in heartfelt discussions about the selected books, emphasizing the importance of diverse narratives that cater to various tastes while maintaining a PG-13 standard. They explore how stories can provide solace, inspiration, and reflection, especially in challenging times.

Notable Quote:

"If you can't stop and slow down a little bit just to really enjoy this. It's sad. And this will help you do that."
— Susie Butterworth [10:31]

Shelf Subscription and Recommendations

Annie highlights the bookstore's evolving shelf subscription program, which now features rotating selections from different staff members, including Susie. This change allows for a broader range of book choices, including backlist titles and new releases, catering to the eclectic tastes of their patrons.

Notable Quote:

"Healthcare and faith are similar because it's an inward searching."
— Annie Jones [18:11]

Additionally, Susie shares her latest reads and upcoming recommendations, encouraging listeners to explore the bookstore’s curated selections through their website and take advantage of special discounts.

Conclusion

Episode 520 of "From the Front Porch" offers a rich exploration of thoughtfully selected books that resonate with readers seeking meaningful and engaging stories without explicit content. Through Annie and Susie’s insightful conversations, listeners are introduced to a variety of genres and narratives that celebrate resilience, love, and personal growth.

Additional Information:

• Upcoming Event: Patty Callahan Henry will be visiting The Bookshelf on April 8th.
• Current Reads: Annie is reading Broken Country by Claire Leslie Hall, while Susie is diving into Beach House Rules by Christy Woodson Harvey.
• Support the Podcast: Listeners are encouraged to leave reviews on Apple Podcasts or support through Patreon for exclusive benefits.

For more details and to purchase any of the discussed books, visit bookshelfthomasville.com and navigate to the “Suzy Reads” section or use the code shopmomselects for a 10% discount on Susie’s selections.