WINNER of the NATIONAL BOOK AWARD and a NEW YORK TIMES TOP 10 BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR, this majestic, stirring, and widely praised novel from two-time National Book Award winner Jesmyn Ward, tells the story of a family on a journey through rural Mississippi. Described as a “tour de force” (O, The Oprah Magazine), it is a timeless work of fiction destined to become a classic. Jesmyn Ward’s historic second National Book Award winner is “perfectly poised for the moment” (The New York Times), an intimate portrait of three generations of a family and an epic tale of hope and struggle. “Ward’s writing throbs with life, grief, and love… this book is the kind that makes you ache to return to it” (Buzzfeed).
Jojo is thirteen years old and trying to understand what it means to be a man. He doesn’t lack in fathers to study, especially his Black grandfather, Pop. But other men complicate his understanding: his absent White father, Michael, released from prison; his absent White grandfather, Big Joseph, who refuses to acknowledge him; and memories of his dead uncle, Given. Leonie, Jojo’s mother, is an inconsistent presence in his and his sister’s lives, battling her own demons and drug use.
When their father is released from prison, Leonie packs her kids and a friend into her car and drives to Mississippi’s Parchman Farm, the State Penitentiary. Here, a thirteen-year-old ghost, Richie, carries the ugly history of the South, teaching Jojo about fathers and sons, legacies, violence, and love. Rich with Ward’s distinctive, lyrical language, Sing, Unburied, Sing is a majestic and unforgettable family story, an “odyssey through rural Mississippi’s past and present” (The Philadelphia Inquirer).
Suitable For
Interests: Readers who enjoy deeply emotional and thought-provoking literature, historical fiction enthusiasts, and those interested in exploring intergenerational family dynamics will find this novel utterly captivating.
Age Groups: This book is most suitable for adults and mature young adults (ages 18 and above) who can appreciate its complex themes and rich prose.
Occasions
This book is an ideal gift for various occasions, particularly literary anniversaries, birthdays, or any celebration involving an avid reader. It is perfect for book club selections, promoting deep discussions and reflections among members. Additionally, it can serve as a meaningful gift during Black History Month, reflecting on themes of racial history and justice.
Key Features
This novel stands out due to its profound narrative, compelling characters, and lyrical writing style. Jesmyn Ward’s ability to weave heavy themes such as racial discrimination, familial struggles, and hope against a backdrop of mystical realism makes this book unique. The multi-layered storytelling and intimate portrayal of character relationships set it apart, encouraging readers to delve deep into the human experience.
Comparison with Other Products
Compared to other novels in the market, Sing, Unburied, Sing offers a remarkable combination of lyrical prose and profound storytelling. While many books explore themes of racial history and family dynamics, Jesmyn Ward’s ability to integrate these with a mystical, almost spiritual narrative provides a distinctive reading experience. Fans of authors like Toni Morrison and William Faulkner will find similarities in style and substance, but Ward’s voice remains uniquely powerful and contemporary.
Emotional and Practical Benefits
Gifting this novel can bring immense joy and intellectual satisfaction to recipients. It provides an emotional journey through its rich storytelling and offers profound insights into human relationships and societal issues. Readers will be captivated by its beauty and depth, often reflecting on its themes long after the last page is turned.
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