I just finished reading Moon Pies and Movie Stars by Amy Wallen. It is a tale strung between Texas and California and involves Winnebagos, Trans Ams, and lots of bowling accouterments. The principal character, Ruby Kincaid owns a bowling alley in Devine, Texas and is raising her grandchildren after her daughter runs away.

Oh, and one of the best parts is the dogged determination of Ruby's sister Loralva to get on the game show The Price Is Right. Loralva memorizes the Sears catalog for prices while charming every male they meet between Texas and California. She gets on the game show and does a stunning job at winning.

I like that this book was not merely about one character but has many interesting characters fleshed out in its chapters. And the references to all things 70's were spot on. And finally, Ms. Wallen includes the actual names of the cars! You see, most books just have generic cars. But in Moon Pies and Movie Stars we actually know that Ruby drives an El Camino, Loralva gets a real Smokey and the Bandit (one of the best movies ever!) Trans Am, and the motel owner drives a Gran Torino. Those are the kinds of details I like in a book! I am a bit of a car nut so I like to know what everyone drives.

It would be great if Ms. Wallen comes out with a sequel to this book. I would like to see where the characters end up.