Books Like...
Avey Johnson, a middle-aged African American widow, embarks on a journey of self-discovery during a Caribbean cruise with friends. Feeling disconnected and restless, she decides to leave the ship in Grenada and joins an annual pilgrimage to the island of Carriacou, where she reconnects with her African heritage and confronts her past. Through flashbacks and memories, the protagonist grapples with her identity, the loss of her husband, and the assimilation into a suburban life that has left her feeling empty. Paule Marshall weaves a narrative that delves into themes of roots, heritage, and the complexities of self-discovery.
If you liked Praisesong for the Widow, here are the top 2 books to read next:
- #1
Save:The Street by Ann Petry is a powerful and heartbreaking tale set in Harlem during the 1940s. The story follows Lutie Johnson, a young black woman striving to create a better life for herself and her son amidst the prejudice, violence, and poverty of her neighborhood. The book delves into the struggles Lutie faces as she battles against the oppressive forces of her environment, highlighting the harsh realities of racism, economic oppression, and the challenges of being a single mother in a hostile world.
Petry's writing style immerses the reader in the gritty and unapologetic world of Harlem, painting a vivid picture of the characters' struggles and the bleakness of their circumstances. The novel skillfully weaves together multiple perspectives, showcasing the interconnected lives of the residents of the street and the impact of their environment on their choices and destinies.
THERE was a cold November wind blowing through 116th Street. It rattled the tops of garbage cans, sucked window shades out through the top of opened windows and set them flapping back against the wind... - #2
Save:'Salvage the Bones' by Jesmyn Ward is a gripping novel that follows a poor black family in rural Louisiana as they navigate their lives leading up to and after Hurricane Katrina. The story is narrated by a 14-year-old girl, Esch, who is pregnant, and explores themes of poverty, family bonds, and resilience. Through lyrical writing and vivid descriptions, the author paints a raw and honest picture of the family's struggles, including dog fighting, teenage pregnancy, and the devastating impact of the hurricane.
China’s turned on herself. If I didn’t know, I would think she was trying to eat her paws. I would think that she was crazy. Which she is, in a way. Won’t let nobody touch her but Skeet. When she was ...
