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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Sweetness & Light: A True-Crime Memoir by Melinda Worth Popham explores family, identity, and the complexities of human relationships in mid-20th-century America. Popham weaves her personal narrative with historical events, capturing the essence of a bygone era while examining the impact of family dynamics and societal expectations. The memoir begins with recollections of Popham's childhood in Kansas City, Missouri, where she navigates the challenges of growing up in a family marked by propriety and appearances. Through her storytelling, readers meet her family members, each with their own struggles and idiosyncrasies. The narrative is interspersed with accounts of true-crime events in her hometown, including the tragic kidnapping and murder of Bobby Greenlease and the chilling story of her classmate Diane Roberts.
Melinda Worth Popham explores the complicated dynamics of her relationship with her parents, especially her mother. A key moment occurs when her mother recognizes her in a hospital room. The memoir concludes with her return to Kansas City, a place where she finds peace and a sense of belonging she once longed to escape. Sweetness & Light is a carefully crafted memoir that examines themes of family, memory, and identity. Popham’s writing reflects how an emotionally charged family life and social norms shaped the era. Her insights on love, loss, and the passage of time serve as a reminder of the lasting influence of family and home. Readers who appreciate the introspective storytelling of Joan Didion, the evocative prose of Mary Karr, or the layered narratives of J.R. Moehringer will enjoy this captivating memoir.
