Charlotte Launches Carol Baldwin’s New Novel “Half-Truths”

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Half-Truths book cover featuring two girls representing different races in a 1950s setting

News Summary

The city of Charlotte is gearing up for the launch of “Half-Truths,” a debut novel by Carol Baldwin, which explores friendship and race relations in the 1950s. The story centers on Lillian and Kate, two unlikely friends whose bond is tested by family secrets and historical truths. Baldwin, drawing from real experiences in the era, aims to engage younger readers while sparking conversations about reconciliation and understanding. The book releases on April 2, coinciding with National Reconciliation Day, and an event at Park Road Books will follow on April 5.

Charlotte Welcomes an Insightful Exploration of Friendship and Race Relations

In the charming city of Charlotte, a new literary gem is on the horizon! Half-Truths is the debut novel from author Carol Baldwin, which promises to sweep readers into the complexities of race relations through the lens of friendship in the 1950s. Set in a time when racial segregation was deeply entrenched in both custom and law, the story revolves around two unlikely friends: Lillian, a Black teenager, and her white companion, Kate.

A Journey Through Tension and Truth

The narrative takes readers on a heartfelt exploration of strained relationships and the resilience of truth. Baldwin artfully weaves in themes of family secrets that ripple through both Lillian’s and Kate’s lives, affecting their bond as they navigate the turbulent waters of a blended America. As the story unfolds, Kate discovers a shocking revelation about her family’s ancestry that asserts she and Lillian are actually second cousins!

This intriguing twist adds an extra layer of complexity to the characters’ friendship, steering them toward confronting their past. Baldwin, who spent 18 years bringing Half-Truths to life, understands the significance of acknowledging historical wrongs as essential to moving toward reconciliation, a theme that resonates powerfully with modern readers.

History and Authenticity Matter

Baldwin’s curiosity about race relations in mid-20th century America led her to this profound story. To enrich the narrative, she collected memories from over 100 individuals who lived in Charlotte during the 1950s, ensuring that the book is not merely a work of fiction, but a reflection of historical authenticity. By speaking to a varied range of people, Baldwin crafts a narrative that reflects the realities of a time marked by racial division.

A Young Voice for Young Readers

Aiming to capture the attention of a younger audience, this novel introduces Lillian as an ambitious aspiring journalist. This choice brings gender barriers of the 1950s into sharp focus, adding another layer of depth to the story. Yet, Baldwin’s storytelling is crafted in such a way that it also appeals to older adults, opening up dialogues across generations about friendship, truth, and the heavy burden of history.

Launching on a Meaningful Date

The release of Half-Truths is scheduled for April 2, conveniently coinciding with National Reconciliation Day! How fitting it is for a book dedicated to healing and understanding to come out on a day celebrated for fostering unity! To mark this occasion, Baldwin will be participating in a panel at the South Boulevard Branch Library from 6 to 7:30 p.m., discussing the book’s themes of reconciliation.

And the excitement doesn’t end there! An official book launch event is set for April 5 at Park Road Books at 11 a.m. Attendees can look forward to engaging discussions surrounding the book, as well as opportunities to connect with Baldwin herself. After all, who wouldn’t want to chat about this compelling narrative that tackles difficult topics with grace?

Where to Get Your Copy

For eager readers wanting to dive into this beautifully crafted story, Half-Truths will be available for purchase on popular platforms such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Whether you’re seeking an engaging story for a younger reader or looking to reignite discussions on race and friendship in America, this novel is bound to offer something for everyone.

Get ready, Charlotte, because Half-Truths is about to change the way we think about the past and the friendships that challenge us to grow. With such relatable themes and relatable characters, it seems that Baldwin’s book will not only resonate with its audience but also inspire conversations that bridge generational and racial gaps.