A review by bvilushis
The Love Songs of W.E.B. Du Bois by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers

challenging dark emotional informative reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

This is a multigenerational saga of an African-American family. The main protagonist is a young girl, Ailey, who is growing up in a middle class family in the 1960's through the 1980's. The book tackles the obvious issues of the day- racism, civil rights, and feminism- as seen through the lens of the Black community. Because of a family tragedy, Ailey loses her sense of purpose and drops out of college. Her beloved Uncle Root, a history professor, finds her a research job with one of his colleagues. Ailey's research uncovers shocking family secrets.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings