A review by _m_a_r_a
Another Country by James Baldwin

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

4.0

It is impressive the depth of social political analysis Baldwin can lay bare within characters that feel still contemporary and in some ways relatable. There is a balance of universality and specificity. It was interesting to read the short introduction after finishing the book which ties Baldwin real life experience to certain aspects of the novel. 

The first chapter was difficult to read due to the graphic scenes of sex, domestic violence and extreme misogyny (which continues throughout the book but not to the same intensity) but it is also required to build the context of the time and place the novel is set. 
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