Preview
  • The Raffle Baby

  • An Astounding Lyrical Novel Inspired by a Shocking True Story of the Great Depression
  • By: Ruth Talbot
  • Narrated by: David Mann
  • Length: 5 hrs and 4 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (13 ratings)

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The Raffle Baby

By: Ruth Talbot
Narrated by: David Mann
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Publisher's summary

“Purchase a ticket for a chance to win a rosy-cheeked little one. Ladies particularly welcome.”

With precise, breathtaking prose and hints of magical realism, Ruth Talbot tells the tale of three orphans as they crisscross the country in the 1930s, riding the rails, chasing the harvests, and stealing when they must. Their destination is always the same: survival.

Teeny, Sonny Boy and Vic have been swallowed up by the desperation and devastation of the Great Depression, but the trio is buoyed by the fantastical tales Teeny weaves around campfires in hobo jungles and migrant camps, including the story of the raffle baby.

As the three navigate the ravages of poverty and prejudices, they form a family bond as strong as the forces against them. But when a solemn pact fails to protect them, their lives are forever changed. And Sonny Boy is left to tell their story, and his own.

Both heartbreaking and uplifting, The Raffle Baby examines the intersection of love, loss and resilience, and the enduring triumph of memory. This is a magical tale not soon forgotten.

©2022 Ruth Talbot (P)2023 Ruth Talbot
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What listeners say about The Raffle Baby

Average customer ratings
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Excellent storytelling

I love the story and I love the narrator. Historical fiction is a favorite of mine. There were times I had tears in my eyes.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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How the author brought you into the story!

I really enjoyed the language and the story. The words were magical and the story was captivating!

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the way the main character told the story as if he was in a conversation with just you.

I felt the time with Tiny at the end was too quick and rushed. unless I missed it...when did they go from meeting again to her dying?

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Excellent audio! The book, characters and narrator were superb!

I'm was pulled in from the beginning. I remember hearing about young kids leaving home at an early age to fend for themselves because the parents couldn't take care of them The life they were living was unusual and the mix of these three kids, having to grow up faster, while still keeping childlike a times. Thank You! 👏👏👏

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RE-live History

This is an amazing story that everyone should read/listen to! This reminds me so much of listening to our grandparents lives as we sit around cross-legged and listen intently to their amazing stories!

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