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3.18 AVERAGE
3.18 AVERAGE
reflective
sad
slow-paced
I really expected this to have more robust supportive documentary context and narratives.
After a slow start, I ended up enjoying this book. It is the first book I have read by Kathleen George, a local author with a number of books. The Blues Walked In is the story of Lena Horne from about 1936 until 1946. Lena's life and struggles parallel those of Marie, the daughter of a Lebanese immigrant whose paths cross with Lena's. A neighborhood boy/man, Josiah, is a mutual friend. There is a lot to the story, including race relations, family, even murder.
My understanding of the Pittsburgh connection was enhanced by my earlier reading of Smoketown, non-fiction which overlaps the time period and some of the characters.
My understanding of the Pittsburgh connection was enhanced by my earlier reading of Smoketown, non-fiction which overlaps the time period and some of the characters.
1.5 stars. Would have rounded down if not for a couple of scenes/pieces of dialogue that I actually liked.
I wanted to love this so badly. Lena Horne had a fascinating life, a fiery personality, heaps of talent, and was a timeless beauty. This book is also by a Pittsburgh-based author and as a Pittsburgher myself, I want to support local authors. But this was bad.
Click here to hear more of my thoughts on this book over on my Booktube channel, abookolive.
I wanted to love this so badly. Lena Horne had a fascinating life, a fiery personality, heaps of talent, and was a timeless beauty. This book is also by a Pittsburgh-based author and as a Pittsburgher myself, I want to support local authors. But this was bad.
Click here to hear more of my thoughts on this book over on my Booktube channel, abookolive.