This novel is beautifully multi-faceted. Gyasi has engaging descriptive language and relatable character development/growth. I know it is good writing when I feel I relate to the main character deeply despite their circumstances being much different than my own - and I felt that while reading this book.

The coming of age novel is the blend of Gifty’s current journey for answers in neuroscience with scenes/memories from her childhood as a second-generation immigrant in the religious South. I appreciated the themes of the world as a gray area (the false dichotomy of science vs. religion), navigating identity as an immigrant & racial minority, and the humanness of continually seeking answers to life’s biggest questions. (Ex. What’s the point of all this? how much control do we have over our suffering? What makes humans different? What is transcendence and holiness and love?)

I like how this book made me think and reflect on purpose, identity / codependency, self-worth, vices/addictions, loneliness, science, intellect, and faith.