I enjoyed Homegoing so much that I had to pick up this one right away. Similarly to other reviewers, I couldn't help but think that the events are partly true or at least based on someone's experience. It felt so personal, very lived in. And like real life, there are a lot of threads here, including addiction, spirituality/faith, family dynamics, and racism, but Yaa Gyasi handles them all with ease. The book jumps around between events in the main character's life, but it didn't feel jarring. It felt like someone honestly sharing their story, their passion for science, and their break from the church, and trying to resolve these seemingly opposing factions, both of which shaped her into who she became.

I got halfway through reading this one, but because I had recently finished a few audiobooks and really enjoyed the experience, I decided to finish this one on audio. Bahni Turpin is a wonderful and gifted narrator, providing the inflections and tones needed for this type of story.

Yaa Gyasi has quickly become one of my favorite authors. 4.5 stars.