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Under the Tulip Tree

Read by:
Sarah Zimmerman
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Unabridged Audiobook

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Ratings
Book
81
Narrator
40
Release Date
September 8, 2020
Duration
9 hours 31 minutes
Summary
Sixteen-year-old Lorena Leland’s dreams of a rich and fulfilling life as a writer are dashed when the stock market crashes in 1929. Seven years into the Great Depression, Rena’s banker father has retreated into the bottle, her sister is married to a lazy charlatan and gambler, and Rena is an unemployed newspaper reporter. Eager for any writing job, Rena accepts a position interviewing former slaves for the Federal Writers’ Project. There, she meets Frankie Washington, a 101-year-old woman whose honest yet tragic past captivates Rena.

As Frankie recounts her life as a slave, Rena is horrified to learn of all the older woman has endured―especially because Rena’s ancestors owned slaves. While Frankie’s story challenges Rena’s preconceptions about slavery, it also connects the two women whose lives are otherwise separated by age, race, and circumstances. But will this bond of respect, admiration, and friendship be broken by a revelation neither woman sees coming?
Reviews
Profile Avatar Sonofnothing Apr 2024

Based off the synopsis, it seems pretty clear that Rena's ancestors turn out to have been owners of Frankie's ancestors. Why spoil the twist in the synopsis? Just leave that bit out and let the reader discover for themselves.

Profile Avatar Anonymous Mar 2024

Wonderful story, well written and awesome narrator

Profile Avatar Melanie K. Oct 2025

Great story! A must read! Hearing an account from a 101 year old former slave seven years post stock market crash was heart wrenching.

Profile Avatar Elizabeth L. Nov 2025

Interesting story.

Profile Avatar Gina Sep 2025

It took me a bit to get into this, but it was worth it.

Profile Avatar Philip H. Jun 2026

An excellent historical fiction story with good character development, lessons to be learned, and emotional moments that captured my attention from start to finish.

Profile Avatar Sarah L. Jun 2026

Such a sweet eye opening story that teaches us a lot about the past and the mistakes that cause people to feel superior to others. These mistakes can only be changed by learning the truths of the past!

Profile Avatar Crystal B. Jun 2026

Fantastic read!

Profile Avatar Sanet V. Jun 2026

Excellent and compelling story and read

Profile Avatar Kathy K. Jun 2026

Really loved this book. Easy read but so impactful. Narrator is great. Take the time to read…it will bring wisdom and fill your heart.

Profile Avatar Anonymous May 2026

One of the best stories I’ve heard in a very long time. Beautiful

Profile Avatar CaroleA May 2026

This story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming.

Profile Avatar Ilidole63 May 2026

Perfect southern accent needed to bring this book alive-well read

Profile Avatar Michelle D. Jul 2025

Wonderful story!

Profile Avatar Phyllis R. Apr 2025

“Everyone has a story to tell, and no one should be silenced.” Just as the WPA worked to capture the stories of those enslaved before the Civil War, this novel will serve to remind us of the injustices of the time. Again, Michelle Shocklee creatively captures historical events and weaves them into an amazing story. The timeline is seamless as it is set within the framework of storytelling. Brilliant. Frankie and Rena are characters that display the love of God and forgiveness. Sarah Zimmerman always delivers a stellar performance in audiobook. Her portrayal of Frankie is exceptional. This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language.

Profile Avatar HMCTMS Nov 2024

A very poignant storyline, I has laughs and tears in equal measure

Profile Avatar Anonymous Jun 2024

A great story.

Profile Avatar Tanya B. May 2024

One of the best books I’ve ever read. Such a touching story. Definitely recommend.

Profile Avatar Terence K. Apr 2024

This was the best of the last 10 books I have heard. The story was interesting and moved along at a pace fast enough to be interesting, but not so fast that is was hard to keep up. The narrator was great.

Profile Avatar Anonymous Apr 2024

Amazing story,very captivating and touting.

Under the Tulip Tree

Under the Tulip Tree

Author: Michelle Shocklee
Read by: Sarah Zimmerman
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