Author Description

Sharecropping was a hard way to make a pittance of a living. Each of the eight Ainsworth children plotted their escape from the drudgery of farm work and humble circumstances. This nonfiction offering describes their various paths to escape. It also offers the personal reflections of the author for a well-lived life. it includes a genealogical history of the Ainsworth family, many of whom found their escapes through unhealthful means. When someone has to live up to his"good name" and never feels that he is capable, what is the result? Mama's love helps make up for the must-be-earned acceptance of Daddy, whose Pride was a fearsome task-master. This web of not feeling quite good enough trapped many of the in addictive behaviors. They persevered and prospered despite their shared past and pain.