43 pages • 1 hour read
An American Marriage
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Book Brief
321
Novel • Fiction
Atlanta, Georgia • Contemporary
2018
Adult
18+ years
HL770L
Super Short Summary
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones explores the lives of Roy, Celestial, and Andre, whose relationships are altered when Roy is wrongfully imprisoned for rape, leaving Celestial to forge her own path while developing a closer bond with Andre. The novel examines contemporary Black identity and the impact of systemic injustice on personal relationships. Sensitive topics include racial injustice and wrongful imprisonment.
Emotional
Melancholic
Romantic
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
430,879 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones offers a poignant exploration of love, race, and injustice. Praised for its compelling narrative and rich character development, the novel captures emotional and complex marital dynamics. However, some critics find the pacing uneven and certain plot elements predictable. Overall, a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read.
Who Should Read An American Marriage?
Readers who appreciate An American Marriage are likely fans of poignant, character-driven narratives exploring complex relationships and social issues, akin to those in Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward. They savor emotionally resonant storytelling grounded in contemporary African American experiences.
430,879 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Roy Othaniel Hamilton
Roy Othaniel Hamilton
Initially portrayed as confident and ambitious, his life takes a dramatic turn following a wrongful conviction, significantly impacting his personal and emotional journey.
Andre Tucker
Andre Tucker
A childhood friend of Celestial and best man to Roy, he grapples with the complexities of loyalty and love during Roy's incarceration, revealing depth and sincerity in his character.
321
Novel • Fiction
Atlanta, Georgia • Contemporary
2018
Adult
18+ years
HL770L
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