The Miss Firecracker Contest

by Beth Henley The place is the small Mississippi town of Brookhaven, the time is a few days before the Fourth of July. Carnelle Scott, affectionately dubbed “Miss Hot Tamale,” is feverishly preparing for the Miss Firecracker Contest, desperate for a victory that she hopes will salvage her tarnished reputation. The arrival of her glamorous cousin Elain, a former contest winner, throws a wrench into Carnelle’s plans, along with the looming threat of losing her family’s home at the hands of her eccentric cousin, Delmount. Carnelle perseveres through a rollercoaster journey, supported by the endearing and quirky cast of characters, including the lovably awkward seamstress Popeye. Laughter, compassion, and moments of poignant lyricism are woven into this family’s dysfunctional past to reveal a future full of hope and promise. In this uproarious and heartwarming tale, The Miss Firecracker Contest promises an unforgettable blend of hilarity, compassion, and an enduring spirit.