The Painters of Lexieville

This poignant chapter book follows Pert Lexie, a seventeen-year-old living in a small, impoverished rural community in Arkansas. Pert's life is already challenging, marked by poverty and the unique cultural context of her community, which includes elements of Holiness churches, possibly involving snake handling. The narrative takes a dark turn when her uncle's inappropriate advances become unbearable, forcing Pert to re-evaluate her determination to leave and her understanding of her family and home. This story explores themes of resilience, the struggle for independence, and confronting difficult truths within one's own family and community. It is a powerful read for mature young adult readers.