Take a photo of a barcode or cover
maryk8 's review for:
The Removed
by Brandon Hobson
I read this book for a library book discussion. Although it is not a book I would typically read, it was well written and interesting. It reminded me a little of Red at the Bone because in this story too, is about a family is preparing for a family ceremony, in this case, a bonfire to remember son/brother Ray Ray on the anniversary of his untimely death (he was mistakenly shot by a police officer when he was a teenager) and you piece together the full story though stories of the experiences of the various family members.
The author, as well as his characters, are Native American. This adds another layer to the story. Many of the situations encountered by the characters are, unfortunately, universal - Alzheimer's, foster care, substance abuse, abusive relationships, and Police violence - however, we also get to see how cultural differences, as well as prejudice and discrimination, affect the family, making this story stand out from being a typical family saga.
I reread this book again because it was selected for my neighborhood book club and I didn't remember much about it from 4 years ago. I think that is because it doesn't have a strong plot with drama and family interactions. This book is more of a work of art, not a page-turner family saga. 15 years ago Ray Ray was killed by a police officer and his family fragmented, each dealing with he trauma in their own private dysfunctional way. As a bonfire to remember Ray Ray approaches, each family member is reflecting on Ray Ray and their private traumas. There is very little interaction between the family members, perhaps symbolizing the isolation that grief brought to them.
One's enjoyment of this book greatly depends on what you are looking for in the reading experience. If you want a plot-driven book with lots of interaction between the characters, this would not be for you. If you are looking for an introspective book to learn about the tragic results of generational trauma and grief that is beautifully written with lots of imagery, then definitely pick igt up.
The author, as well as his characters, are Native American. This adds another layer to the story. Many of the situations encountered by the characters are, unfortunately, universal - Alzheimer's, foster care, substance abuse, abusive relationships, and Police violence - however, we also get to see how cultural differences, as well as prejudice and discrimination, affect the family, making this story stand out from being a typical family saga.
I reread this book again because it was selected for my neighborhood book club and I didn't remember much about it from 4 years ago. I think that is because it doesn't have a strong plot with drama and family interactions. This book is more of a work of art, not a page-turner family saga. 15 years ago Ray Ray was killed by a police officer and his family fragmented, each dealing with he trauma in their own private dysfunctional way. As a bonfire to remember Ray Ray approaches, each family member is reflecting on Ray Ray and their private traumas. There is very little interaction between the family members, perhaps symbolizing the isolation that grief brought to them.
One's enjoyment of this book greatly depends on what you are looking for in the reading experience. If you want a plot-driven book with lots of interaction between the characters, this would not be for you. If you are looking for an introspective book to learn about the tragic results of generational trauma and grief that is beautifully written with lots of imagery, then definitely pick igt up.