This isn't really the true crime memoir that the book sets itself up as. The amount of tragedy in this town is awful, and my heart goes out to the residents. And it does discuss the murder of a gay man who was an alcoholic and got away with some questionable decisions. There isn't any intertwining between the two stories beyond and then we took the body to the Ziemer's funeral home. Daniel Melchior has certainly lived an interesting life, but I'm not sure how all the elements of the book tie together.

Kindness is the biggest blessing, and to be kind is in every way indispensable, especially when you are living in a place marred by gun violence,alcoholism, and racism. Otherwise, you end up committing the heinous sin: killing the mockingbirds.
It is a heartwarming memoir to which some of us can totally relate, about a kind mother who worked laboriously every day of her life after marriage to provide the best for her family and to make sure they appreciate the songbirds in their lives. She works for the American dream so that her children can live it. Thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Recommended 💯.