A non-linear, multi-generational story of the North women, as told, I think primarily through the youngest daughter. It is concerned with describing, with great empathy, clarity, dignity—how and what systemic barriers have prevented the North women from flourishing, but also coming into themselves despite those obstacles. Sometimes the obstacles are their spouses—other black men—who are treated with the same dignity and respect and, at times, staggering compassion, despite wildly traumatic and harmful behaviours. Showcasing the systemic brutality that they have gone through to become who they are in a multifaceted way that places responsibility, and Justice, with the right people.

It is intricately plotted, wildly satisfying. Chains together more impactful moments than most books can conjure. Sometimes, yes, it strays into emotional manipulation, but I think it does so much work literally all of the time, that it pulls it off. It is the opposite of moral ambiguity and yet not preachy, self satisfied, nor prescriptive, or even judgemental. There is a wicked amount of control being deployed, and it is where the book shines the most.

Objectively, it did take me a bit to sink into it. There is a heavy moment deployed early on that makes it feel like it will be derivative, and the prose work does feel like a debut sometimes. It would be fair to call it uneven. However, those aspects shrank with every page, until they became nit-picky. Especially when contrasted to the final construction. This pulls off in 1/3 the length, and I think much better overall, what The Love Songs of W.E.B Du Bois attempts. There is not a wasted sentence and the clarity and distinction of voice here in Memphis absolutely rivals Love Songs. Which also deserves the accolades it is getting, don’t get me wrong. Both books are prize material. I just think this needs to be given far more props than it has.