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

dark emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

It was written so good you’d think it was based off a true story. This book deserves all the stars‼️ If you don’t have it buy it and if you already own it READ IT . . . I used audio as I read along with the physical and it was such an amazing experience highly recommend this way. 

The dual timelines were well-paced and woven together perfectly. We journey between the past and present generations of Ailey Garfield’s ancestral lineage in Chicasetta, Georgia. There were so many hidden family secrets, unforeseen linkages, injustices, traumatizing and heartbreaking moments that created this remarkable story. 

The author showcases the importance of knowing one’s family history. Painting such a vivid picture both good and horrific with her words it’s hard not to envision all the characters and the situations they encountered. The family tree was very helpful with keeping up with them all.

Memorable Characters:
Ailey
Lydia
Uncle Root
Dr. Oludara

Most disliked characters:
Samuel
Victor
Gandee
Rebecca
Abdul

The plot was definitely unpredictable and crafted in such a way that made you want to know more. I still have questions about Coco since she was one character I felt the author didn’t shed enough light on. Coco mentioned her family not paying her much attention growing up. So, it’s almost as though the author made her character nonexistent until certain parts. We get so much more backstory on Ailey and Lydia but not much on the pain or trauma Coco experienced when they were all abused by Gandee. I wanted so bad for one of them to speak up. 

Overall, the book was worth the read and if nothing more the author knows how to evoke a reader’s emotions. The dialogue was engaging and continued to build with each chapter. We get themes surrounding family history, addiction, gender, self-discovery, racism, bondage, and education. If this book isn’t on your TBR I highly recommend you add it‼️
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