43 pages • 1 hour read
No Telephone to Heaven
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Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
Jamaica • 20th century
1987
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
No Telephone to Heaven by Michelle Cliff continues the semi-autobiographical story of Clare Savage, a Jamaican-American woman navigating her identity across different cultures and political landscapes. Clare grows up in Jamaica, moves to New York, and studies in London, ultimately joining a Jamaican revolutionary group. The novel explores themes of race, class, gender, and colonial history. This story includes depictions of violence, racial prejudice, drug addiction, and sexual trauma.
Mysterious
Melancholic
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
1,396 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Michelle Cliff's No Telephone to Heaven is widely praised for its compelling narrative and rich exploration of postcolonial identity and gender issues. However, some critics note its nonlinear structure can be challenging. Overall, Cliff's evocative prose and deep cultural insights make it a profound, albeit complex, read that resonates on multiple levels.
Who Should Read No Telephone to Heaven?
A reader who would enjoy No Telephone to Heaven by Michelle Cliff is likely captivated by postcolonial literature and complex identity narratives. Fans of Toni Morrison's Beloved and Jamaica Kincaid's Annie John will appreciate Cliff's exploration of Afro-Caribbean heritage, colonialism, and feminist themes.
1,396 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
224
Novel • Fiction
Jamaica • 20th century
1987
Adult
18+ years
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