The Sum of Trifles (Crux: The Georgia Series in Literary Nonfiction Ser.)

Are you struggling with what to do with your loved ones' possessions after they've passed? Look no further than The Sum of Trifles, a wise and moving memoir in essays by Julia Ridley Smith. In this literary nonfiction masterpiece, Smith takes you on a journey through the layers of meaning surrounding specific objects her parents owned. From an eighteenth-century miniature to her father's prosthetics, each artifact tells a story that will leave you captivated.

Discover the emotional connection behind a vintage hi-fi that unravels the often tense relationship between Smith and her father. Experience the principles of good taste and good manners through a Japanese screen that embodies her mother's values. And be prepared to confront her family's slaveholding legacy as she grapples with an antebellum quilt.

The Sum of Trifles is not just a collection of personal stories. Smith intertwines literature that sheds light on how the inheritance of objects has shaped her own identity and purpose. This curious and thoughtful exploration invites you to question your own relationship with material culture and reflect on the choices you face when deciding what to keep and what to let go.

Delve into the world of The Sum of Trifles, filled with dark humor, raw emotion, and an erudite streak that will leave you longing for more. Don't miss out on this captivating memoir. Start reading today to uncover the profound impact of objects on our lives and how we navigate the complex emotions that come with losing loved ones.

Click here to get your copy of The Sum of Trifles and embark on a journey of self-discovery through material heritage.