Transcendent Kingdom is one of those books where the writing is so beautiful I wanted to be encompassed in it. It's book where I read paragraphs again and again - not because I didn't follow what happened, but because the sentences were so evocative, so perfect that I needed to read them again.

The words are lyrical and flow like a gentle stream. Until abruptly Yaa Gyasi, drops a bombshell and the illusion is shattered. And I think that perfectly portrays Gifty's experiences with life and religion.

In Transcendent Kingdom we get an intimate look into Gifty's life - both in present time and looking back at her childhood. 

As a child Gifty was deeply religious, as a grown up she's moved away from the church and has put her faith into science. The novel follows Gifty as she tries to live with her mother's depression, cope with her brother's death to addiction, all while getting her PHD in neuroscience.

Reflecting on the past we get insights into her life through journal entries and letters she wrote to God.

In both her childhood and adulthood we see Gifty question religion, science and philosophy. She's trying to figure out how they work together. She's trying to find something to put her faith in when religion has failed her.

Yaa Gyasi also explores family relationships, addiction, mental health, race and life as an immigrant. All the topics are explored with such tender finesse. 

Gyasi describes childhood so realistically; the innocence and self-confidence young children have is captured so perfectly. She looks deeper at people with addiction, showing their full complexities and not just their addiction.

I loved everything about this book. It was thought provoking, emotional and beautifully told. It gets a solid 5 stars from me.