Greenwood, Mississippi

Greenwood, Mississippi is a small mostly farming community along the Yazoo River. It is the main setting of this novel as Hiram originally grows up there with his Grampa Earl Hillburn and his Gramma Florence Hillburn. After Gramma passes away, Hiram's father, Harlan announces that he is moving to Tempe, Arizona to teach at a local college and is taking Hiram with him. Harlan does not want to stay in Greenwood as it is an area filled with prejudice and Harlan does not approve of this. He especially does not want these views taught to Hiram. This causes resentment between Harlan and Hiram as Hiram does not ever want to leave Greenwood. 7 years later, Hiram is allowed to return as Grampa needs help after having a stroke.

When Hiram returns he finds that physically nothing has changed about the town. People are excited to see him and...