A review by winchesterm89
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

challenging emotional reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.25

This book covered so many topics, especially was it means to be “American”. I liked that it was set in a Northern city. So often, when historical fiction covers race, the novel is usually set in the South. But it’s important to remember how pervasive racism is and that the North is not immune to this poison. This novel feels timely. While there are many Doc Roberts who exist in society, the novel also shows the power of community. “The tired and the poor” of Chicken Hill (a nod to the New Colossus reference) banded together to save a young Black boy. I liked the inclusion of disabled characters. Chona’s and Monkey Pant’s physical limitations did not prevent them from having a tremendous impact and helping their community. Dodo’s deafness did not prevent him from living a fulfilling life. Sometimes it was hard to keep up with the many POVs in this novel but it all came together in the end. 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings