buggie_books 's review for:

The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

3.0

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I really enjoyed the vivid setting and the immersive world McBride created. Each character felt like part of the community. That said, I found the large cast a bit overwhelming. I feel like a tighter focus on fewer characters might have allowed for deeper emotional engagement. Alternatively, the narrative could have worked well as a short story collection. At times, the pacing and plotting pulled me out of the story, particularly during tangents that explained backstories or broader issues. I think a more focused start, especially within the first 100–150 pages, or a shorter length overall, might have strengthened the book. Still, it was a compelling read, both heartwarming and hard-hitting.