What Happened to Me

by La Salle Corbell Pickett

"What Happened to Me" by La Salle Corbell Pickett is a memoir written in the early 20th century that reflects on the author’s life experiences, particularly her childhood in Virginia. The narrative begins with descriptions of her birth and early family life, detailing the love and complexity of her upbringing against the backdrop of Southern society during a turbulent period. The memoir intertwines personal anecdotes with historical references, giving readers insights into family dynamics and societal expectations of women during that era. At the start of the book, the author recounts the circumstances surrounding her arrival into the world, which was marked by unexpected chaos and excitement. From the account of her birth, where her family anticipated a boy and were surprised to welcome a girl, to her childhood memories filled with vivid characters, including family members and household servants, the narrative sets a warm, reflective tone. The opening chapters introduce the reader to her nurturing grandmother, cherished early relationships, and the deep cultural traditions that shape her identity, suggesting a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the social constructs of her time.