When the Reckoning Comes us haunting tale that tackles failing school systems, racism, slavery, violence, rape, and coming face to face with the past.  I don't think you can ever escape it.  It was poetically told at times and hard o stomach at others.   It did not hold back with the atrocities of violence inflicted upon blacks on this old plantation.  This book is a great reflection of how racism is still alive and well in American in the 21st century.  I did feel it tried to incorporate many themes so while they were fleshed out, it was almost like a check point (ie. school system and mom's bitterness of black men).  I would have liked to know more about Celine, Jessie and the groom.  Good book, enjoyed it a lot.