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A review by kathywadolowski
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
challenging
dark
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This was a bleaaaaak reading experience. I don't think it's supposed to be fun, but still... once I'd started, I did not look forward to picking this one up.
The writing is dynamic and haunting, but it suffered within a pretty confused structure that took away some of my appreciation for the story. This almost read like a collection of short stories with individual sections covering each character, rather than a coherent narrative involving them all. For that reason, when the more shocking moments of the plot took hold I felt very disconnected from their impact.
The themes were certainly there, the most poignant being the way in which racism warps self-image and contributes to a cycle of negativity. I just think it would've come through a bit stronger with a more straightforward presentation.
The writing is dynamic and haunting, but it suffered within a pretty confused structure that took away some of my appreciation for the story. This almost read like a collection of short stories with individual sections covering each character, rather than a coherent narrative involving them all. For that reason, when the more shocking moments of the plot took hold I felt very disconnected from their impact.
The themes were certainly there, the most poignant being the way in which racism warps self-image and contributes to a cycle of negativity. I just think it would've come through a bit stronger with a more straightforward presentation.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Incest, Racism, and Rape
Moderate: Child death and Domestic abuse
Minor: Bullying