You want to smile?  Read this book.  You want to cry?  Read this book.  You want to laugh, shout, weep?  Read this book.

I Am One of You Forever by Fred Chappell may not be very popular, but this thin novel is a piece of Contemporary Southern literature that should be on the shelf of every English major, professor, or simply every reader.

Jess, the narrator, tells us stories about the visits from his aunts and uncles when he was a young man.  Meanwhile, he juggles the storyline of his adopted older brother who becomes his best friend.  Through the recollection of Jess’s childhood, I Am One of You Forever takes on the tone of an innocent memory, a nostalgic story that is told in such a passive way, it leaves readers desiring their childhood years again.

Each chapter is narrated as if Jess is Grandpa reading to his grandchildren who sit on the floor with their ears perked up in interest.  Readers, beware of the sentimental longing and emotion that is softly pressed into each sentence of this book.  It will captivate you, swallow you, comfort you, and leave you feeling warm and cold.

Chappell’s novel is a quick read, so if you’re looking for a book to snuggle up with by the fireside on a chilly autumn or winter day, grab your mug of coffee, your blanket, and your copy of I Am One of You Forever, and step into a world as sweet as candy.