A review by graywild
Promise by Rachel Eliza Griffiths

challenging dark emotional sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Story set in the late 1950s about 2 African American families that have moved to a small town in Maine.  The story centers on Ezra and Cinthy and the racism that they face.  Their father thought they would be able to have a life in Maine. Turns out racism of the time is just as violent in the North as it is in the South.  The story does a good job of bringing out the hardships of African Americans have in basically a white town.  Police intimidate and threaten.  Employers manipulate employment.  Even their white friend is taught by adult whites how to hate.  Tough at times to read.  Recommend