In simple, yet intense prose, Toni Morrison has created a
painfully moving story weaving together stories of loss, hatred trauma and
healing. Given the current state of race
relations in this country, the novel is both timely and timeless.
In the book’s opening, a light skinned African-American
woman gives birth to a baby girl whom she rejects as “too black.” The mother continues to reject the girl,
insisting she call her “Sweetness” not mom. The girl grows up embrace her
beauty and becomes a successful model and businesswoman. She wears white to enhance the contrast with
her skin and renames herself Bride. She
meets a musician named Booker and they develop an effortless loving
relationship.
Until one day, Bride is confronted by a mistake from her
childhood, which she seeks to rectify. Booker
leaves her abruptly stating, “You ain’t the woman for me.” As Bride attempts to locate her boyfriend,
she goes on a journey to the deeply wounded parts of herself. The story is at once bleak and painful, but
ultimately hopeful. Each character is lovely and flawed but with transformative
power of love can be reborn.
I can’t recommend this novel more highly as a unique and
powerful study on trauma and perseverance. A great book for a reading group to
explore and discuss.
No comments:
Post a Comment