A review by francestea
If Beale Street Could Talk by James Baldwin

challenging emotional funny hopeful reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

A modern classic. This is a beautiful, short read about a young couple in love and the challenges they face with their families and the law. Due to police discrimination, Fonny is wrongfully imprisoned and the book switches between modern day: when Trish goes to visit Fonny in jail, and the past: where we see scenes from their lives before. My absolute favourite part of the book is when Ernestine gives the Hunt’s a piece of her mind. There is lots of joy and sorry in this book but the theme of injustice is strong and the families frustration with the judicial system is palpable. 
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