Abouts Books

By Tyler Tichelaar

Book Review of "Rhett Butler's People" by Donald McCaig

Rhett Butler's People
Donald McCaig
New York: St. Martin's Press, 2007
ISBN: 9780312262518

The Old South Returns

"Gone With the Wind" is the novel I credit for my becoming a historical novelist. So I was elated by the release of "Rhett Butler's People" by Donald McCaig. Authorized by Margaret Mitchell's estate, which previously authorized Alexandra Ripley's sequel "Scarlett" (1990), "Rhett Butler's People" is a prequel and retelling. It also continues beyond "Gone With the Wind" with a more fitting conclusion than "Scarlett." While Alexandra Ripley's "Scarlet" was a specific sequel, "Rhett Butler's People" covers the 1840s to the 1870s and provides a completely alternate ending from "Scarlett."

Margaret Mitchell's authorial tone is evident throughout "Rhett Butler's People." McCaig magnificently recreates the Old South from barbecues to Atlanta burning. The story is told from several perspectives-Rhett's sister Rosemary, Belle Watling, and Melanie Wilkes-but Rhett is the novel's center. Rhett's character is revealed through his family conflicts, adventures, and tormented love for Scarlett O'Hara. A nobler and more human Rhett Butler is the result-Margaret Mitchell would definitely approve.

Unlike many retellings of classics, "Rhett Butler's People" does not sensationalize or degrade its parent novel, but treats it so respectfully that one almost feels he is reading missing pages from "Gone With the Wind." A more perfect sequel could not have been written. McCaig concludes the book: "Which Wasn't Nearly: The End." I hope then we may expect another addition to this favorite American story. - Tyler R. Tichelaar

Tyler R. Tichelaar holds a Bachelor's and Master's Degree from Northern Michigan University and a Ph.D. from Western Michigan University. His family's long relationship with Upper Michigan and his avid interest in genealogy inspired Dr. Tichelaar to write his Marquette Trilogy: Iron Pioneers, The Queen City, and Superior Heritage. Dr. Tichelaar is also a professional book reviewer and editor (http://www.SuperiorBookPromotions.com). For more information about Tyler R. Tichelaar, his writing, and his author services, visit: http://www.MarquetteFiction.com