Under the Pawpaw Trees

In ‘Under the Pawpaw Trees’, Cheryl King delivers a heartfelt sequel that deepens the emotional journey of June Baker as she grapples with grief, revenge, and self-discovery during the Great Depression. As a continuation of ‘Sitting on Top of the World’, this second novel offers a powerful exploration of June’s character, making it a compelling read for both young adults and older readers.

Still in her teenage years, June is determined to avenge her brother’s death, a tragedy she blames on railroad bull Paul Burnett. Driven by anger, June embarks on a dangerous mission to seek justice. However, her quest soon becomes a journey of self-reflection, courage, and, ultimately, forgiveness. King masterfully weaves June’s personal struggles with historical context, though the novel’s focus is primarily on June’s internal battle, leaving the Great Depression as more of a backdrop. This choice enhances the emotional depth of the story, especially after the strong introduction of the first book, but may leave readers craving more insight into how the era’s hardships shaped the lives of other characters.

While June’s relationships and inner conflicts are deeply developed, some secondary characters feel underexplored. Still, King’s vivid writing brings every scene and emotion to life, from June’s interactions with her loyal friend Jimmy Mack to her longing for home under the pawpaw trees. Though the pacing is sometimes uneven, the emotional stakes and surprising twists keep readers engaged throughout.

‘Under the Pawpaw Trees’ is a beautifully told coming-of-age story about resilience and healing. It’s a moving sequel that balances heartbreak with hope, offering readers a memorable and inspiring journey.