So ... this one actually didn't click with me. No criticisms of the writing, can't really comment on the "story" as it's a non-fiction/memoir. Books written in verse aren't my favorite, but I've had a couple 5* "poetry" reads, so it wasn't the format. Just coming to write a review and ... I really don't have much to say, I don't remember much, didn't stop and highlight.

I have this in all three formats. I picked up a physical copy, and borrowed the audio and Kindle copy from the library. I went primarily with the audio, which was narrated by the author. It was fine ... but honestly, I think I probably should have read this one. With some of my previous "poetry" reads that really connected with me (Long Way Down, The Crossover) I started with audio, felt compelled to re-read in both Kindle and physical (as in the case with verse, sometimes the spacing is part of the poetry, and it's really most effective on the printed page). Here, I skimmed both after finishing the audio, but didn't feel like doing a complete re-read. The physical book (at least my copy) has lovely deckled edges. Three circle certificates on the front. 

Five PARTS with multiple "chapters" in each ... each "poem" a header and some lines on that topic. It continued chronologically for the most part. 

I feel like if this had been a read for book club, or in a school setting, I would have delved deeper, done a re-read of the print copy, seen more/absorbed more than I did in my quick listen just for enjoyment. Probably would be upped it to a 4*. I can see there are quite a few QUOTES saved ... I've glanced through them, but still, not really that zing of connection.

As I try to recall ... there was quite a bit about Jehovah's Witnesses (the girls being taught, proselytizing), the youngest brother and lead paint, the two homes (with father, with mother), the author's journey to become a writer. Butterflies. Black concerns/issues.

One thing I note, is when a song is "sung" by a character, is it sung or spoken by the narrator in audio? Here, both happened (tingalay-o, come little donkey come - was spoken ... I know the tune to that one, not sure where/when I learned it. Then there was a "way down ... hollow tree" which was sung) ... have to wonder at the inconsistency?

I liked the author's note, about starting to write about her life and having the memories come. Writing an autobiography can be overwhelming, but is a good thing to do (just for family, not for publication and such. With familysearch.org, I've been surprised and how many of my ancestors took the time to write up their life history). If a full memoir seems too much, take this as inspiration and just write down little vignettes ...