The Review

“The Evolution of Annabel Craig” by Lisa Grunwald was a delightful surprise that exceeded my expectations. Transporting readers to the heart of the bible-belt in 1920s Tennessee, the novel unfolds a captivating narrative as Annabel Craig, formerly Hayes, undergoes a personal evolution while her husband, George, supports the defense team in the Scopes trial.

As a work of historical fiction, the book adeptly portrays the character development of small-town residents. Initially depicted as a supportive housewife who feels uneasy about her husband’s involvement in the trial, Annabel’s encounter with Lottie Nelson, a reporter from Chattanooga, broadens her horizons and inspires her to use her camera to document the trial proceedings.

Grunwald’s skillful delivery and writing style make the challenging subject matter easily accessible. Through Annabel’s perspective, the novel reawakened my memories of the Scopes trial from AP US History, offering a thought-provoking portrayal of one of America’s earliest examinations of the separation of church and state.

Overall, this evocative and well-crafted novel not only brings to life a significant historical period but also skillfully intertwines the personal journey of its protagonist with the broader societal shifts taking place at the time. “The Evolution of Annabel Craig” is a compelling, insightful read that seamlessly blends historical events with the human experience, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. I would rate 3.5 stars rounded up to 4!

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Short Review (AKA TLDR)

“The Evolution of Annabel Craig by Lisa Grunwald” was nothing like I was expecting it to be; it was better. Set in the heart of the bible-belt in 1920s Tennessee, Annabel Craig, nee Hayes, embarks on a journey of her own evolution, while her husband, George supports the defense team in the Scopes trail.

For a Historical Fiction, the novel does a fascinating job showcasing the character development for our small-town residents. Annabel starts off as the supportive housewife, slightly ashamed her husband was assigned to the defense in fear of what her neighbors may think. However, she soon meets Lottie Nelson, a reporter from Chattanooga, who shows her women can be more than just homemakers – and recruits Annabel use her camera to take photos of the trail.

Grunwald delivery and writing allowed the divisive topic to easily digested. Threw Annabel’s eyes what little memory I had left regarding the Scopes trail from AP US History, was quickly jog awake; as I was reminded of one of the first true tests in America regarding the separation of church and state.