Title: A Becharmed Callie Christmas
Subtitle: A Story of the Civil War
Author: J.D.R. Hawkins
Publisher: J.D.R. Hawkins
Pages: 90
Genre: Historic Short Fiction
Reviewer: Manik Chaturmutha
Pacific Book Review
The American Civil War (1861-1865) was a devastating conflict that tore the country apart, causing significant social, political, and economic changes. The main issue of the Civil War was slavery, which was resolved by the Union’s victory, leading to the abolition of slavery and the preservation of the United States as a single nation. It remains a critical moment in American history that shaped the nation. This book, A Becharmed Callie Christmas by author J.D.R. Hawkins, is set in this context.
The story is set in 1862, Alabama, a place of great turmoil and strife. It revolves around the life of 15-year-old Callie Copeland, whose peaceful existence is interrupted by the chaos of war. As Callie prepares for her family’s Christmas party, the uncertainty and harsh realities of the conflict loom large, threatening to overshadow the joyous occasion. Despite the festive mood, the tension in the air is palpable, and Callie can’t help but feel that everything she holds dear is at risk.
From a third-person point of view, the tale employs the simple and fitting vocabulary of the South, which enriches the readers’ experiences. The protagonist, Callie, is an intelligent and ambitious child who can sometimes come across as self-centered due to her ignorant ways and vanity. By portraying the protagonist’s naivety and self-absorption, the author skilfully brings to life the unblemished innocence of a child, creating a captivating narrative that draws in the reader. However, she also possesses good intuition and a keen sense of self-preservation, making her an impressionable child with solid values.
The writer describes the social, economic, and political situation in the South, including disruptions to currency, the abandonment of posts by black slaves in their households, and trade disruptions. These details help the reader imagine the setting more vividly. The story emphasizes the harsh realities of war, including the sacrifices which must be made. Regardless of the dire setting, the author engages in a mildly cheery tone for the characters.
The story is well-written and engaging, making it a good read. In addition to its historical significance, the text offers a nuanced portrayal of gender relations during wartime, highlighting the struggles and agency of women in a male-dominated society. Through vivid descriptions and compelling characters, the text offers a window into a bygone era and the complex human experience of those who lived during that time.
J.D.R. Hawkins’s Becharmed Callie Christmas intricately weaves a poignant tale through the eyes of 15-year-old Callie Copeland. Hawkins masterfully intertwines historical accuracy with an endearing protagonist, offering a compelling exploration of gender dynamics and the human experience during a pivotal moment in history. I highly recommend this beautifully crafted novella to the fans of historical fiction seeking an emotionally resonant narrative.
