Rarely do I read a book that unnerves me so much that I am unable to sleep, but The Art of Southern Charm by Patricia Altschul and Deborah Davis did just that. I am appalled that people will read this and believe this is how southern people act.
I have several problems with her idea of Southern. First every Southerner is judged by her tea (sweet is always implied) and not her martini. Second "Bless Her (His/Your) Heart" is never, ever used with a compliment. It simply softens whatever is being said. Third tomato sandwiches are not tea sandwiches. A tomato sandwich should be served on lightly toasted bread. It is best eaten while leaning over a dinner plate or the kitchen sink. A good tomato sandwich is always messy. If it is not messy, you did not make it properly. Finally I was shocked at the absence of funeral etiquette. Funerals are a big part of Southern culture.
I did not realize that Ms. Altschul had a reality show. If I had looked at some of clips on YouTube before reading this book rather than after, I could have saved myself some time. I do realize that the author would consider me "common", but I am fine with that. After watching clips of the author's show, I find it ironic that she criticized "Honey Boo Boo". It is charming that Ms. Altschul finds a difference between the two. Bless her heart!
disclosure: I received this e-book from NetGalley but was not otherwise compensated for this review. All opinions are my own!
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