Book Review: Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg

This Alabama “chick lit” story of women, food, and friendship straddles two time periods and two sets of friendships: the 1920s friendship of Ruth and tomboy Idgie; and the 1980s friendship of lonely housewife Evelyn, and the elderly Ninny. The friendships and interactions between Ninny and Evelyn are sweet, as Ninny shares stories of her sister-in-law, Idgie. Meanwhile, Evelyn is trapped in a loveless marriage to an uncaring husband, with children who treat her poorly. Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe is the author’s unique exhibition of the southern woman’s spirit and the value of friendship, both past and present.