A review by booksjessreads
The Color Purple by Alice Walker

challenging emotional funny sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

This is also one of my favourite reads of 2020. I found it hard to get used to the dialogue from Celie at first in her diary entries but I quickly became accustomed to it and I was quickly engrossed in the story! I also found it a slow read in some respects, mainly due to the general pace of the plot. However, I did get through it quite quickly because the diary entries weren't often very long. It was mainly the letters that were longer. 

I enjoyed the first person narrative and particularly liked the insight the reader gets into Celie's actions and thoughts, and how she eventually subtly exercises power in her own home over the children and her partner. Due to the laws of misogyny during the time the book was written, it was hard for women to use their voices and had no choice but to be submissive to these values. Celie does find her voice through her friendship with Shug and it is a heart-warming to see their friendship and love for each other grow, and in turn how Shug empowers Celie. 

This novel explores themes of race and misogyny within the early 1900s, but also entwines themes of love, family and friendship, as well as exploration of sexuality. A great read that I have thoroughly enjoyed!
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