Great Jehoshaphat and Gully Dirt!

by Jewell Ellen Smith

"Great Jehoshaphat and Gully Dirt!" by Jewell Ellen Smith is a novel written in the late 20th century. The narrative follows Mrs. Goode, an elderly woman in a nursing home, as she grapples with her past memories and present realities, including her encounters with family and a young minister named Dr. Shirey. The opening of the book introduces Mrs. Goode as she attends a church service in a brand new place, showcasing her struggles with aging, hearing loss, and the adjustments that come with life at Crestview Rest Home. Throughout this portion, she reflects on her youthful experiences in Arkansas, revealing a contrast between her nostalgic memories and the chaotic modern life surrounding her. As she interacts with the usher and thinks about the sermon, her emotions oscillate between frustration and longing. This complex layering of nostalgia and present disillusionment sets the tone for a deeper exploration of family dynamics and societal changes, promising a story that will resonate with readers amid themes of faith and resilience.