Rick Bragg's All Over but the Shoutin' is a compelling memoir noted for its evocative storytelling and vivid portrayal of Southern life. Praise centers on Bragg's lyrical prose and emotional honesty. Critics note some repetition and a sense of self-indulgence at times, which may detract for some readers. Overall, it's a poignant and powerful narrative of resilience and family.

A reader who would enjoy All Over but the Shoutin' by Rick Bragg appreciates heartfelt memoirs, Southern culture, and tales of personal resilience. Similar to fans of Jeannette Walls's The Glass Castle and Frank McCourt's Angela's Ashes, they seek evocative storytelling that portrays overcoming adversity with poignant, vivid prose.

All Over but the Shoutin' is a memoir by Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter Rick Bragg, detailing his upbringing in rural Alabama as one of three brothers raised by a nearly always single mother in extreme poverty. His father, a Korean War veteran and alcoholic, was often absent. The book highlights Bragg's journey from poverty to a successful journalism career and his ultimate goal of buying his mother a house. The memoir includes depictions of violence, alcoholism, and poverty.

Emotional / Contemplative / Bittersweet / Inspirational / Melancholic

- All Over but the Shoutin' is written by Rick Bragg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, who brings his storytelling prowess from journalism into the memoir, vividly capturing the struggles and triumphs of Southern life.
- The book is part of a trilogy, followed by Ava's Man and The Prince of Frogtown, which delve deeper into Bragg's family history and Southern roots.
- Rick Bragg uses rich and poignant language in All Over but the Shoutin' to create a powerful narrative that highlights themes of poverty, resilience, and the complex bonds of family.

**Rick Bragg**  
The author and major character of this memoir, Rick Bragg reflects on his journey from a challenging childhood to achieving significant career success, emphasizing the influence of his family and personal struggles.

**Margaret (Momma) Bragg**  
Rick Bragg's mother, a central figure in his life, known for her strength, self-sacrifice, and determination to provide for her children despite the hardships of poverty and a difficult marriage.

**Sam Bragg**  
Rick's older brother, characterized by his responsibility, loyalty, and hardworking nature; he remains in their hometown and supports his family while celebrating Rick's accomplishments.

**Mark Bragg**  
Rick's younger brother, who struggles with the impacts of their tumultuous upbringing, especially regarding inherited behaviors and challenges, leading to personal difficulties.

**Grandmother Ab**  
Rick's maternal grandmother, remembered for her strong-willed and eccentric personality, as well as her dedication and sacrifice for her family.

**Charles (Daddy) Bragg**  
Rick's father, whose struggles with alcoholism and traumatic experiences from military service affect his relationship with his family, leaving a complex legacy for his children.

Rick Bragg

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

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Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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All Over but the Shoutin' Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: The Widow’s Mite

Prologue-Chapter 4

All Over but the Shoutin' Prologue-Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-8

All Over but the Shoutin' Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-15

All Over but the Shoutin' Chapters 9-15 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: Lies to my mother

Chapters 16-22

All Over but the Shoutin' Chapters 16-22 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 23-25

All Over but the Shoutin' Chapters 23-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 26-29

All Over but the Shoutin' Chapters 26-29 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 30-33

All Over but the Shoutin' Chapters 30-33 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: Getting Even with Life

Chapters 34-38

All Over but the Shoutin' Chapters 34-38 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 39-42

All Over but the Shoutin' Chapters 39-42 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

All Over but the Shoutin' Key Figures

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Themes

All Over but the Shoutin' Themes

Symbols & Motifs

All Over but the Shoutin' Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

All Over but the Shoutin' Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

All Over but the Shoutin' Essay Topics

Introduction

All Over but the Shoutin' Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

All Over but the Shoutin' Before Reading

During Reading

All Over but the Shoutin' During Reading

After Reading

All Over but the Shoutin' After Reading

All Over but the Shoutin'

Before You Read

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