A review by boop123
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

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

4.25

 Man I teared up when reading the author’s note… finding out that a schoolmate of hers wanted to have blue eyes which led her to the creation of this book really devastated me but at the same time, truly reflects the reality of beauty standards during that era and how prevalent the importance of resembling a white person is considered beautiful. It was heartbreaking and melancholic but the writing was so beautifully written. The fact that this was Toni Morrison’s debut and she immediately came out with this banger is crazy like her literary achievements are definitely well-deserved. 

I also like how the book focused on different characters but still connected with Pecola and how it altered her perception of beauty towards herself and others. This was an interesting writing decision but I liked how fleshed out the characters and simultaneously provides a backdrop to its reality. Different characters throughout the book constantly referred to Pecola as ugly and you can tell that even Pecola herself believed and internalized that. Even towards the end when Pecola wanted to have the bluest eyes because she kept on comparing them to other girls who have them. The ending was just so tragic and saddening but the way it was written was eloquent and compelling to read. 
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