55 pages • 1 hour read
Red at the Bone
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Book Brief
208
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 2000s
2019
Adult
16-18 years
Super Short Summary
Jacqueline Woodson’s Red at the Bone weaves together the lives of Melody, born from a teenage pregnancy, and her intergenerational family, who navigate the complexities of identity, class, race, and history. The narrative, set against the backdrop of Melody's 16th birthday celebration, explores how her parents Iris and Aubrey, along with grandparents Sabe and Po’Boy, confront and reflect on their pasts and relationships within their Brooklyn home. The novel includes themes of violence against Black individuals and generational trauma.
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Melancholic
Emotional
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
86,269 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jacqueline Woodson's Red at the Bone intricately explores themes of family, identity, and generational impact with lyrical prose. Reviewers praise its compelling characters and emotional depth. However, some noted its fragmented narrative structure may challenge readers. Overall, its evocative storytelling and profound insights make it a powerful read.
Who Should Read Red at the Bone?
A reader who enjoys character-driven, multi-generational narratives like Tayari Jones' An American Marriage or Yaa Gyasi's Homegoing would find Jacqueline Woodson's Red at the Bone captivating. This work appeals to those interested in exploring themes of identity, family, and history through lyrical prose.
86,269 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
208
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 2000s
2019
Adult
16-18 years
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