41 pages • 1 hour read •
Silver Sparrow
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
•
Historical FictionAtlanta, Georgia • 1980s
2011
Algonquin Books
Adult
18+ years
770L
Super Short Summary
Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones is set in 1980s Atlanta and follows the lives of two half-sisters, Dana and Chaurisse, who share a father, James Witherspoon. Dana is aware of their complex family secret, while Chaurisse remains oblivious. As Dana seeks ways to interact with Chaurisse, the tension between their parallel lives grows, leading to an inevitable and dramatic revelation. The book includes themes of infidelity and complex family dynamics.
Melancholic
Mysterious
Emotional
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
52,237 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Tayari Jones's Silver Sparrow receives high praise for its compelling narrative and rich characterization, intricately depicting the complexities of polygamy and family secrets. Critics commend Jones's skillful prose and emotional depth. Some, however, feel the pacing lags at times. Overall, it's a thought-provoking and well-crafted novel.
Who Should Read Silver Sparrow?
A reader who enjoys multifaceted family dramas and complex emotional narratives would appreciate Tayari Jones's Silver Sparrow. Fans of Toni Morrison's Beloved or Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere will be drawn to its intricate examination of secrets and relationships set against a richly depicted backdrop.
52,237 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Chaurisse Witherspoon
Chaurisse Witherspoon
An "utterly ordinary" girl who works hard but lacks direction until she befriends Dana Lynn, whose connection with her family alters her life.
James Witherspoon
James Witherspoon
A businessman and bigamist who manages his dual life with two families, creating hidden complexities in his relationships.
Gwendolyn Witherspoon
Gwendolyn Witherspoon
The protective mother of Dana Lynn who navigates the challenges of her life with resilience and loyalty.
Laverne Witherspoon
Laverne Witherspoon
James's first wife and a beauty shop owner who copes with the realities of her marriage while providing for her family.
Raleigh Arrington
Raleigh Arrington
James's adopted brother, business partner, and a good-natured photographer who remains calm under pressure and supports the family business.
Silver Sparrow was honored by Oprah Magazine as one of "the Best Books of 2011," showcasing its widespread critical acclaim.
Author Tayari Jones drew inspiration for Silver Sparrow from her own experiences growing up in Atlanta, providing a personal backdrop to the narrative setting.
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The novel uniquely explores themes of secrecy and family dynamics, earning it a place as an NEA Big Read selection, which promotes community-wide reading initiatives.
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368
Novel • Fiction
•
Historical FictionAtlanta, Georgia • 1980s
2011
Algonquin Books
Adult
18+ years
770L
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