The Way it Was, is a work of historical fiction by Nelson Weaver.

The novel chronicles the life and times of two southern families. One family is black and the other is white. It begins in rural southern Kentucky where the land is flat and the dirt is rich. A place where plantations once spread across the landscape, and slavery provided the labor that produced tobacco, corn, wheat and cotton.

The story is written within the context and perspective of a southern narrator, however, the themes of the novel are universal.

The novel chronicles the life and times of two southern families. One family is black and the other is white. It begins in rural southern Kentucky where the land is flat and the dirt is rich. A place where plantations once spread across the landscape, and slavery provided the labor that produced tobacco, corn, wheat and cotton.

The author takes the reader on a journey through the eyes of each generation as they face hardship during the Great Depression, war, civil and social unrest, racial tension, and a changing society. Each experience is woven into the fabric of history to the extent that history is practically a character in itself, as well as an influence on the lives of the other characters.

The story ultimately focuses on the lives of the Victor Wells and Nathan Weaver. Both boys were products of the “Baby Boomer” generation. Their friendship struggled with the issues of race and civil rights in addition to all the normal problems associated with growing up during the 60s.

Many of the characters, places and events are actual characters, places and events. Others are inspired by historical facts. Some are total fiction.

Nelson Weaver, author of The Way it Was, is obviously proud of his Kentucky home.

The “Land of Logan County” is fertile with the seeds of countless stories. This is one story you will not want to miss.