Take a photo of a barcode or cover
ambershelf 's review for:
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store
by James McBride
In the charming small town of Chicken Hill, Pennsylvania, Jewish and Black families live side by side. At its heart, Moshe and Chona Ludlow operate an integrated theater and grocery store alongside their trusted employees, Nate and Addie Timblin. However, when the State decides to institutionalize a deaf Black child, Nate and Chona take a stand to protect the boy, setting off a series of heartwarming acts of kindness from those living on the fringes of white Christian America, complete with unexpected twists and turns.
HEAVEN AND EARTH is a touching tale that beautifully illustrates the solidarity between the Black and Jewish communities during the 1920s. McBride's writing is both compelling and engaging, infused with a delightful blend of humor and candor reminiscent of the works of Amor Towles and Tania James. The depth and breadth of the characters are truly praiseworthy, each grappling with their own struggles against the oppressive forces of white supremacy. While the story primarily revolves around the Ludlows and Timblins, the supporting characters are equally well-developed; McBride's ability to make them shine in their own right is nothing short of remarkable.
One aspect that stands out is McBride's exploration of the Jewish congregation, where some seek assimilation and white acceptance (that will sadly never materialize) while others embrace Black solidarity. Furthermore, the inclusion of disabled characters sheds light on the State's inexplicable violence against those who experience the world differently.
McBride dedicates this captivating book to Sy Friend, the retired director of The Variety Club Camp for Handicapped Children in Worcester, PA. Having worked at the camp for four summers during college, McBride draws inspiration from his experience there to weave a story brimming with life & love.
HEAVEN AND EARTH is a truly phenomenal narrative that centers around a compelling mystery while being beautifully complemented by its exquisitely crafted cast of characters. The book deftly delves into historical racial tensions. Yet, it is brimming with heartwarming moments that will leave a lasting impression. I wholeheartedly recommend this gorgeous book to everyone; it's a must-read that captures the essence of compassion and empathy and deserves to be cherished by readers far and wide.
HEAVEN AND EARTH is a touching tale that beautifully illustrates the solidarity between the Black and Jewish communities during the 1920s. McBride's writing is both compelling and engaging, infused with a delightful blend of humor and candor reminiscent of the works of Amor Towles and Tania James. The depth and breadth of the characters are truly praiseworthy, each grappling with their own struggles against the oppressive forces of white supremacy. While the story primarily revolves around the Ludlows and Timblins, the supporting characters are equally well-developed; McBride's ability to make them shine in their own right is nothing short of remarkable.
One aspect that stands out is McBride's exploration of the Jewish congregation, where some seek assimilation and white acceptance (that will sadly never materialize) while others embrace Black solidarity. Furthermore, the inclusion of disabled characters sheds light on the State's inexplicable violence against those who experience the world differently.
McBride dedicates this captivating book to Sy Friend, the retired director of The Variety Club Camp for Handicapped Children in Worcester, PA. Having worked at the camp for four summers during college, McBride draws inspiration from his experience there to weave a story brimming with life & love.
HEAVEN AND EARTH is a truly phenomenal narrative that centers around a compelling mystery while being beautifully complemented by its exquisitely crafted cast of characters. The book deftly delves into historical racial tensions. Yet, it is brimming with heartwarming moments that will leave a lasting impression. I wholeheartedly recommend this gorgeous book to everyone; it's a must-read that captures the essence of compassion and empathy and deserves to be cherished by readers far and wide.