Rainwater

Rainwater by Sandra Brown is a beautifully written novel combining historical fiction and romance. Set in rural Texas during the 1930s, it follows Ella, a single mother, as she runs a boarding house and raises her son. With vivid descriptions and poignant themes, this novel explores the hardships of the Depression, racial prejudice, and the transformative power of kindness. The colorful boarders add charm, and the evolving relationship between Ella and Mr. Rainwater makes this a perfect pick for book clubs.

The year is 1934. With the country in the stranglehold of drought and economic depression, Ella Barron runs her Texas boardinghouse with an efficiency that ensures her life will be kept in balance. She cares for her ten-year-old son, Solly, a sweet but misunderstood child. When David Rainwater arrives seeking lodging, Ella senses he'll change their lives forever. As financial ruin, racial tensions, and personal secrets threaten everything, Rainwater's quiet strength and love prove transformative. A powerful and heartwarming tribute to courage, compassion, and sacrifice.

1. What qualities does Ella Brown possess? What is her greatest strength? What is her greatest weakness? Which qualities are inherent and which do you attribute to her situation in life?
2. Rainwater is set in Depression-era Texas. What details does Brown use to create atmosphere? How does the setting affect the action of the story?
3. Why does Ella reject the advice of Dr. Kincaid and Mr. Rainwater? Is maternal love impeding her from making a decision?
4. Why does Mr. Rainwater want to keep his illness and affluence a secret? What clues did you find?
5. Discuss the impact of the small-town grapevine. How might the story differ in a larger city?
6. How does Brown portray the dire straits of the poor? Did the kindness and charity of others surprise you?
7. What motivates Conrad Ellis's gang and the hungry mob? Who is right and who is wrong?
8. How does the relationship between Ella and Rainwater evolve? Would it have without their hardships?
9. What kinds of prejudices appear in the story and how are they expressed?
10. Describe the black community's affection for Brother Calvin. What does he represent?
11. Is Brother Calvin a hero or martyr? Are Depression-era heroes different from modern ones?
12. Why does Mr. Rainwater take responsibility for Solly's actions? Is he a hero?
13. Did the flashback frame add suspense to the novel?
14. Why do you think the story is told from Ella's point of view? Was it effective?
15. Do you see parallels between the Great Depression and today's economic struggles?