Memphis focuses on Black women through several generations of the North family. Men are important to the story, but the women are centered and their stories truly shine here. 

The story begins with the perspective of Joan. She’s 10 years old and it’s 1995, and she’s just made it through a long road trip with her mother, sister, and their big dog Wolf. Her mother, Miriam, finally left their Marine father after many years of growing abuse. 

Joan, Miriam, Mya, and Wolf are welcome into Aunt August’s home. There would be a feeling of great relief except than Derek is there. Derek did something horrible to Joan years ago. And so their lives entwine and some traumas are traded for others. 

This is a beautiful story of the strength and resilience of Black women, how they keep going through the most difficult trials. I enjoyed some perspectives more than others, the chapters about Hazel were my favorite. I feel that one major event in the second half deserved more of a conclusion, but beyond that my only criticism is that I wanted more time in the world of the North women. 

I hope you’ll pick up this short, powerful book.