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55 pages 1 hour read

Tar Baby

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1981

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Book Brief

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Toni Morrison

Tar Baby

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1981
Book Details
Pages

310

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Caribbean Island • 1970s

Publication Year

1981

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Tar Baby by Toni Morrison explores the complicated romance between Jadine Childs, a model, and Son, a fugitive, as they navigate the challenges of identity, love, and societal expectations across varying settings such as the Caribbean, the American South, and New York City. The narrative delves into themes of romantic obligation and betrayal as well as the intersection of social class and race, offering a rich, character-driven story. The book contains scenes of domestic violence and assault, child abuse, and instances of racism and the use of slurs.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Dark

Emotional

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.3

23,370 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Toni Morrison's novel Tar Baby is a complex exploration of identity, race, and class. Critics praise Morrison's lyrical prose and compelling character development, illustrating deep societal conflicts. However, some find the narrative's pacing uneven. Overall, the book's rich thematic content and vivid storytelling make it a compelling read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Tar Baby?

Readers who appreciate Tar Baby by Toni Morrison are likely enthusiasts of rich, complex narratives exploring themes of race, identity, and class. Comparable to fans of Beloved by Morrison herself or The Color Purple by Alice Walker, they seek profound literary fiction that delves into African American experiences and intricate character development.

4.3

23,370 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Jadine Childs

Jadine Childs is a well-educated and independent model whose relationship with Son challenges her steadfast self-reliance and views on love and identity. She is the niece of Ondine and Sydney, and Valerian Street is her patron.

Son is a fugitive who hides at L’Arbe de la Croix and develops complex feelings for Jadine. He struggles with his identity and seeks to assert his beliefs while navigating his turbulent relationship with Jadine.

Valerian is the head of the household at L’Arbe de la Croix, stubborn and focused on his own pursuits while often clashing with those around him. His interactions with Jadine and his deteriorating family dynamics highlight his often controlling nature.

Margaret is Valerian's wife, who grapples with societal pressures and her role as a mother to Michael. Her character evolves as she confronts past actions and seeks to redefine herself.

Sydney and Ondine are Jadine’s uncle and aunt, dedicated employees of the Streets, who maintain a steady presence in the household and manage much of its daily affairs. Their loyalty to Jadine and the Streets contrasts with the tensions in their relationships.

Gideon and Thérèse are employees at L’Arbe de la Croix, who navigate their positions by cleverly managing others' perceptions of them. They interact with Son and challenge the household's status quo with their unique perspectives.

Book Details
Pages

310

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Caribbean Island • 1970s

Publication Year

1981

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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