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A review by ohlhauc
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
dark
emotional
funny
inspiring
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
This is a classic for a reason. The story follows Janie through three of her relationships as she increasingly finds her voice and power amidst domestic violence, sexist gender norms, and the pursuit of a true love.
It is extremely well-written, scarce but evocative enough to imagine what's happening. The dialogue is also masterful, and makes you feel like you're on the porches with the characters as they banter, gossip, fight, and reflect on their lives. Seeing Janie liberate herself from the worlds she's put in through her three relationships is also inspiring, and her growth through the journey was very emotional.
I highly recommend listening to this as an audiobook if the written dialect is hard for you. The version narrated by Ruby Dee is spectacular.
It is extremely well-written, scarce but evocative enough to imagine what's happening. The dialogue is also masterful, and makes you feel like you're on the porches with the characters as they banter, gossip, fight, and reflect on their lives. Seeing Janie liberate herself from the worlds she's put in through her three relationships is also inspiring, and her growth through the journey was very emotional.
I highly recommend listening to this as an audiobook if the written dialect is hard for you. The version narrated by Ruby Dee is spectacular.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Sexism, and Violence
Moderate: Animal death, Death, Racism, Rape, and Slavery
Minor: Homophobia