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jesslolsen's review
4.0
I always find it really refreshing to read a story that is set out slightly different from the norm, it makes be excited to continue reading no matter what the topic, and it makes it harder to guess how it is going to end.
This story tells the depressing yet interesting tale of Hattie's tribe of children. It very cleverly shows you who they are, and then by default tells the story of Hattie herself.
I don't know how accurate it is, but in parts it is heartbreaking, and I found myself really wanting this poor family to finally cut a break! It seemed like each and every one of them was doomed to struggle their entire life.
But despite the bleak tales of the family members, the Mathis is a master storyteller. It may not give you warm and fuzzys when you read it, but it will definitely keep you turning the page.
This story tells the depressing yet interesting tale of Hattie's tribe of children. It very cleverly shows you who they are, and then by default tells the story of Hattie herself.
I don't know how accurate it is, but in parts it is heartbreaking, and I found myself really wanting this poor family to finally cut a break! It seemed like each and every one of them was doomed to struggle their entire life.
But despite the bleak tales of the family members, the Mathis is a master storyteller. It may not give you warm and fuzzys when you read it, but it will definitely keep you turning the page.
booksandbourbon's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
ir_sharp2's review
3.0
I agree with the 'Aw, hell' reviewer. It's a book. I read it, it was okay. I was intrigued once or twice, but overall not the kind of story I go for. Too much short story for me. And as for the Oprah comments? Seriously?? "Hot diggity damn, Ayana Mathis is the bomb diggity"?!?!?! Wowwwww... Oprah's gotten too.......something......for my taste. Yech.
d52s's review
3.0
This was enjoyable but not great. I like the characters and was impressed by this first time author. Overall, good insight on motherhood/family life. But by the last chapter, I was tired of how the book jumped around with minimal continuity.
jlfields925's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
reflective
relaxing
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
shirleytupperfreeman's review
Hattie and August are part of the Great Migration. Each chapter is the story of one of their offspring - for better and worse, richer and poorer, in sickness and in health. The writing is beautiful, the stories often bleak, the characters resilient in spite of many challenges. Worth the read.
luvandkiwi's review
2.0
While I liked the idea of this book I really did feel lost in the format. The stories were great, but there was never any resolutions...everything was left open and unanswered. Ayana makes you feel for each one of these characters and then you're left feeling abandoned after each chapter.
Not a great read for sentimental folks like myself.
Not a great read for sentimental folks like myself.