A review by aghoststory
The Weight of Blood by Tiffany D. Jackson

dark emotional tense 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? It's complicated

3.5

It is hard to top Stephen King’s “CARRIE.” It is a beloved classic in the horror genre after all, but then Tiffany D. Jackson came along and showed us how it’s done with her young adult reimagining THE WEIGHT OF BLOOD.

This retelling focuses on Maddy Washington, a bi-racial teen who has been passing for white in her small town of Springville, Georgia due to her father’s strict rules and abuse. Springville is still living in a racist past and when her bullies find out her secret, they are relentless. When they push too far they not only awaken a social justice movement in their community, but powers within Maddie as well. 

If you’re familiar with the plot of Carrie then you’ll be familiar with how this turns out for the town. Jackson does an amazing job at honoring our favorite prom queen while still making it her own. It is reflective of our social justice movements and addresses themes surrounding colorism, microagressions, police brutality, and self-acceptance. 
Half of the story is even told through a podcast investigation.

THE WEIGHT OF BLOOD is a thrilling and bloody time. An instant buy author. 


Expand filter menu Content Warnings