The Undertaker's Daughter by Kate Mayfield

Historical Fiction - 3.5 stars

Sold as a cross between Six Feet Under and The Help, The Undertaker's Daughter is Kate Mayfield's memoir about growing up in 1960s Jubilee, Kentucky in her home that doubled as a mortuary. Her father served as the undertaker as well as the town ambulance driver, and Kate enjoyed every minute she spends with him. She wouldn't, however, spend time in the embalming room.

Mayfield weaves various relationships into the story, from Ms. Agnes, the eccentric older "lady in red," to her bipolar and sometimes violent sister, Evelyn. Subject matter spans many topics, including the argument for concrete vs. metal vaults, desegregation, and small town politics. It is obvious that her father was an alcoholic and a philanderer, but was her favorite person in the world. Poignant and often funny, I recommend this book to anyone who wants a good, interesting read, especially book clubs.