Yup, I voluntarily chose to read a book about toilets and plumbing. This microhistory details the history behind sewage systems, aqueducts and the public's access to water, along with the discussing the growing problem with the world's overpopulation and pollution of our oceans, rivers, and lakes. Overall, the book takes an informative, yet humorous tone, though all the engineering lingo definitely went over my head. However, this book made me take the time to consider what we all take for granted - free access to running, clean water.
For some reason, I felt like it took me forever to finish this one, which is strange because it was a rather cute little story. Truly is a heroine of enormous proportions - she was born big (which ultimately kills her mother and turns her father into an alcoholic) and continues to just grow and grow throughout her life in upstate New York. All of this is compounded by the fact that her older sister, Serena Jane, is beloved by the rest of the town for being little, dainty, beautiful and perfect. Despite all of these hardships, Truly remains a kind figure, if something of an outcast. However, after her sister's untimely demise, Truly must move in to take care of Serena's nefarious husband and child. And this is where things start to get a little...crazy. There's lots more to this story than I'm describing - betrayal, murder, mysticism and true love. The pacing is quick and Baker does a nice job of characterization. Overall, a good read.
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