A review by meant2breading
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

challenging emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I was worried initially about being able to finish this book as there are many characters to keep track of and multiple subplots. Just know, you need to put in effort reading through the character development to get to the plot tie in. It is VERY slow, but so worthwhile!  I am so glad I made the investment in reading this book. It is a touching and powerful story about community, friendship, living with disability, and navigating prejudice as well as the facade of the “American Dream”.  Also, James McBride is sincerely a well crafted story teller. I did listen to a few chapters of this on audiobook and was quite entertained by Dominic Hoffman’s narration. Would recommend either format but you have to be willing to take the time to learn how each character is important to the broader story. 
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