Where to start with this epic historical fiction novel? At 800 pages long, it certainly requires commitment but it's a powerful book and worth the effort. I definitely recommend reading it with a buddy like I did, as there is a lot to digest. 

The book is split into modern day and  past chapters (spanning centuries). The past sections are known as the song chapters and these are the ones that delve way back into the deep ancestry of the modern main characters. The extensive reseach is evident and it's fascinating to see how the family are traced all the way back to their indigenous roots. 

The modern day chapters were easier to read in terms of narrative style however they were often just as difficult in subject matter. I really enjoyed getting to know Ailey and her immediate family, seeing where they had come from and how they navigated through both joys and hardships. 

I do believe, had I been in a better headspace at the time of reading this, I would probably have rated it even higher. I can see why it has so many 5 star reviews. At times, I did find it difficult to keep a track of everything and everyone. I also found the sorority content quite tiresome. 

Overall, a moving multi-generational novel about race throughout America's complex history.