Memphis: A Read with Jenna Pick: A Novel

Memphis was a disappointment

It seems that no matter what the wrong done it is our duty to forgive. I’m confused why the author needed Joan to forgive Derek because he put himself in a position to be locked up since he’s a rapist and a murderer. I didn’t even understand Miriam allowing her two young daughters to live in a house with a rapist.


I will say I enjoyed the writing style of the author. Could have done without the constant use of the N-word. Actually confused Joan was adamant about another racial slur being used but had no problem using a racial slur against her own people.

The story flowed well, but the blasphemy in that book is crazy!

So much of the 20th century finds a place in this novel. Set almost entirely in Memphis, the story is literally woven. Chapter by chapter, Stringfellow is revealing a bit of Hazel’s story, then a bit of Joan’s, then a bit of Miriam’s. These three women are the key characters in this saga of a black family in Memphis, from 1955-today. The writing is engaging and often elegant. This simultaneously spotlights and compensates for the harsh realities these women are living with.

I really enjoyed this read of Joan and the powerful women that guided her in life. The chapters take turns jumping timelines between the 3 generation of women and the life that was given to them to force them to lean on no one but themselves and the community Memphis gave them. This is a book of POC empowerment but mostly women empowerment. (Warning: There are triggers of abuse)

Be forewarned this book explores generations of trauma including sexual assault and racism.