Red at the Bone: A Novel
Moving forward and backward in time, Jacqueline Woodson's taut and powerful new novel uncovers the role that history and community have played in the experiences, decisions, and relationships of these families, and in the life of the new child. As it explores sexual desire and identity, ambition, gentrification, education, class and status, and the life-altering facts of parenthood, Red at the Bone most strikingly looks at the ways in which young people must so often make long-lasting decisions about their lives--even before they have begun to figure out who they are and what they want to be.
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Community Reviews
This was a wonderful story, covering multiple topics and a long period of time. Each of the family members gets to speak up, which I loved.
I was a little disappointed that several of the events were only briefly touched upon, such as Tulsa Race Massacre and 9-11. I realize that these were important events and weren't the main focus of the story, though. People who want more information can look up the events.
The story hit several heavy topics - teen pregnancy, classism, LGBT issues. It was a great story that I would recommend.
I was a little disappointed that several of the events were only briefly touched upon, such as Tulsa Race Massacre and 9-11. I realize that these were important events and weren't the main focus of the story, though. People who want more information can look up the events.
The story hit several heavy topics - teen pregnancy, classism, LGBT issues. It was a great story that I would recommend.
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Insightful and poignant examination of family and love. Melody and the generations who preceded her are explored in a free form manner and three audiobook was narrated by a full cast, so it was easy to know whose view we were sharing. Current cultural horrors are deftly woven into the story - 911, and the generations earlier Tulsa massacre most notably. This one will haunt me for a while.
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Very great story of family dynamics and the affects of familial relationships. The ending left me with a few questions but overall was a good read.
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Jacqueline is a brilliant writer and overall was able to deliver a good book. The only reason I did not highly rate it is because it felt like there was something missing throughout. Lastly, I don't necessarily hurt open endings, but I'd have to throughouly enjoy and admire the book from start to finish in order to love that execution.
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