Can't Wait to Get to Heaven

A Novel

De: Fannie Flagg

Narrado por: Cassandra Campbell

Combining southern warmth with unabashed emotion and side-splitting hilarity, Fannie Flagg takes readers back to Elmwood Springs, Missouri, where the most unlikely and surprising experiences of a high-spirited octogenarian inspire a town to ponder the age-old question: Why are we here?

Life is the strangest thing. One minute, Mrs. Elner Shimfissle is up in her tree, picking figs, and the next thing she knows, she is off on an adventure she never dreamed of, running into people she never in a million years expected to meet. Meanwhile, back home, Elner’s nervous, high-strung niece Norma faints and winds up in bed with a cold rag on her head; Elner’s neighbor Verbena rushes immediately to the Bible; her truck driver friend, Luther Griggs, runs his eighteen-wheeler into a ditch–and the entire town is thrown for a loop and left wondering, “What is life all about, anyway?” Except for Tot Whooten, who owns Tot’s Tell It Like It Is Beauty Shop. Her main concern is that the end of the world might come before she can collect her social security.

In this comedy-mystery, those near and dear to Elner discover something wonderful: Heaven is actually right here, right now, with people you love, neighbors you help, friendships you keep. Can’t Wait to Get to Heaven is proof once more that Fannie Flagg “was put on this earth to write” (Southern Living), spinning tales as sweet and refreshing as iced tea on a summer day, with a little extra kick thrown in.©2006 Fannie Flagg; (P)2006 Books on Tape

better if you're a fannie fan

When I bought this book, I didn't realize that the characters and town were from previous books. I think it makes a big difference in getting into the story. I almost shelved this one after 4 hours because it seemed to be going nowhere. I did persevere and thought it was an enjoyable book, although not great.
The first half of the book is pretty much character study. It felt like I was suppose to like these people and the town (which at first I didn't feel much affinity for either). It takes quite awhile for the story to take-off and as Fannie Flagg always does, she ties-up all the loose ends in the last chapter.
It's cute and if you're a Fannie fan, you're sure to love it. However, if you're not a Fannie fan, I would perhaps start with the other books in the series first or better yet, just listen to Fried Green Tomatoes or A Redbird Christmas.
If you're a fan of Southern fiction and looking for something new, Between Georgia by Josalyn Jackson is a real good one!

Worth continuing

I almost gave up on this book for the same reasons as the others who gave it low ratings. Tired of the boring old lady dialogue, I fast forwarded 3 minutes and then went "what?" I backed up and realized the back story was over. It was interesting from that point on. Still a feel good book but that's what I was in the mood to hear. It is not instant gratification. It's a slow and fulfilling story.

halrious!

outstanding story line and plot. I love Fannie Flagg's stories in that they begin slow paced but grab your attention in such a way you cant stop.

Outstanding!

Fun book

Really enjoyed this fun, light book. Hooked on the characters and couldn't wait to hear more of their adventures. Well read

great book

This was a wonderful book with just the right amount of humor about times gone past.