Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow - 3+ stars (Steeplechase, BWF)

[Joy D]

Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow - 3* - My Review

Multi-generational family saga featuring three generations of women living in one house in Memphis in a primarily Black neighborhood. It moves back and forth to portray the family history from the 1920s through 2000s. The storyline follows the family, while also tracking the social changes taking place with respect to civil rights. It is a story of family, whose members provide a source of both comfort and conflict. A primary focus is on perseverance. One of the family members shows artistic talent, and she eventually uses it as a springboard to a better life.

As the title indicates, Memphis is an integral part of the story. The city’s history and culture provide the backdrop. The history is dark and troubling in its racial strife and violence, but the culture is rich in musical, artistic, and literary influences. The primary drawback is the shifting timelines that are not handled smoothly. Multiple timelines can be difficult to execute well, and here they interrupt the flow of the narrative. It works well in portraying the generational relationships among the women, and the way it is interwoven with history and culture is compelling, but the abrupt time shifts often jump many years and do not seem to be organized in any particular sequence.

Overall, it is a promising debut. The author clearly possesses strong writing skills, and I look forward to seeing what she does next. Sensitive readers should be forewarned that it includes a horrible abusive act toward a young child as well as spousal abuse and other graphic violence.

PBT Steeplechase - tagged "culture" x6:
https://www.goodreads.com/work/shelve...

BWF February Extra S - fits letter and tagged "authors of color x26:
https://www.goodreads.com/work/shelve...

[Sue]

Great review! I gave this one 3 stars as well, but definitely interested to see what the author writes next.