Miracle in Eppi

"Miracle in Eppi" is a family saga beginning at the end World War I and spanning three generations of the Munson and Shepard families. The Munson's own and operate a dog biscuit factory in the company town of Eppi that Radcliff Munson founded in rural Alabama. The Shepard family came to Eppi to operate the town's funeral home. Radcliff Munson becomes a millionaire selling "Sergeant Munson's Dog Biscuits" and cannot understand how he made his fortune in the middle of the depression. But during a business trip to New York City, Radcliff discovers the shocking reason why. After World War II and a slump in business, Radcliff and his war hero sons get involved with unusual characters create advertising so effective that the Munsons become millionaires once again. Everyone enjoys the decadence of wealth, especially the son's wives. The families are once again affected by war, this time Vietnam. By the 1970's, the A. Ryan Corporation builds a chemical storage facility on the site of the original dog and cat food company and the town of Eppi is fading. After an industrial accident at the facility, the townsfolk sue the A. Ryan Corporation, putting their hopes and dreams on winning the lawsuit. There is subtle humor found in this novel filled with numerous vignettes examining the activities of the families and chronicling the life of America's last company town.