Summary

In Chapter 1, Lacey May, the 14-year-old narrator of the novel, wonders where her mother goes when doing her assignment, given to her by their pastor, Pastor Vern. Women in their church congregation only get assignments once they get their period, which Lacey prays for so she can be useful.

Vern re-baptizes everyone in their town, Peaches, for a town revival. Water cannot be spared due to drought; they are bathed in cola.

The next day, Lacey May watches her mother get dressed, admiring her beauty. Her mother sees blood running down Lacey May’s legs, realizing Lacey got her period. Lacey May is ecstatic. She cannot wait to tell Pastor Vern and thinks back to his original miracle. Seven years ago, he promised to bring rain to Peaches when he took over his dying father’s position as pastor. Peaches has an intense drought...