46 pages 1 hour read

Fire Shut Up in My Bones

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2014

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

Charles M. Blow

Fire Shut Up in My Bones

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Gibsland, Louisiana • 1970s

Publication Year

2014

Publisher

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Fire Shut Up in My Bones by Charles M. Blow recounts his journey from his troubled childhood in rural Louisiana, marked by sexual abuse and family instability, to his eventual success as a journalist. The memoir details his struggle with identity and social acceptance, highlighting his resilience and career achievements. The narrative addresses themes of trauma, resilience, and self-acceptance.

Mysterious

Melancholic

Emotional

Contemplative

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.3

6,584 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Fire Shut Up in My Bones by Charles M. Blow is lauded for its raw and powerful memoir of overcoming personal adversity. Critics praise Blow's lyrical prose and emotional depth. However, some note its heavy subject matter might not be for everyone. The memoir's introspective narrative and social commentary offer a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Fire Shut Up in My Bones?

Readers captivated by personal narratives and social commentary, similar to The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates, will appreciate Fire Shut Up in My Bones by Charles M. Blow. This memoir resonates with those interested in overcoming adversity, racial identity, and the complexities of masculinity.

4.3

6,584 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Charles M. Blow

The introspective narrator whose journey through life is marked by a search for love and acceptance from those around him. Despite facing numerous personal struggles and challenges, he achieves significant successes in his academic and professional life.

Blow's strong-willed mother who plays a crucial role in his upbringing, balancing love with tough expectations to prepare him for life's challenges. Her dedication to education and independent spirit leaves a lasting impact on Blow.

Blow's father, once a musician, whose dreams are derailed by life circumstances, leading to a strained relationship with his son. He copes with his disappointments through unhealthy habits and struggles with being the father Blow desires.

Blow's larger-than-life grandmother known for her strong presence and tumultuous past, who ultimately finds happiness with her fourth husband, Jeb. Her strength and influence are significant in Blow's life.

Big Mama's fourth husband who acts as an emotional anchor and father figure for Blow. His kindness and capacity to see good in others provide Blow with much-needed love and support.

A manipulative older cousin of Blow, who preys on vulnerabilities and plays a dark role in Blow's early life. Chester's actions create long-lasting challenges for Blow.

A significant romantic figure in Blow’s life, initially met at a dance club, sparking an intense love affair. Despite the eventual end of their marriage, they remain connected through their shared children.

Members of the fraternity Blow joins, exemplified by the challenges and camaraderie faced during the initiation process. They highlight the complexities of power dynamics and moral lessons about fraternity life.

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Gibsland, Louisiana • 1970s

Publication Year

2014

Publisher

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.