At first, I was shocked to be reminded that James Baldwin’s 1950s is hardly different from the world of 2020. I’m angry that our broken systems gave a watered down version of American society and didn’t introduce me to this novel 15 or 20 years ago. This is the America we should be reading about! Yet I’m very happy that it found its way to me (or I to it), especially at this moment in our history. It has been a constant reminder that we have to be stronger than ever because our work is never-ending. I think James Baldwin, the person, is woven throughout this story, just like how Rufus is. I saw my family, friends, people I know, and our society sneak out of the words. I felt myself through the relationships, the connections, the details...I caught my mind replaying some of my own experiences with love, friendship, and loss. In the end, I was left understanding a little more about myself and wanting to learn more about everything hidden in these pages. It’s hard for me to describe my feelings about this book. It’s complicated. But I might be woven throughout this story, as well. I can’t wait to read it again.

I first read this in high school I wanted to read it again but I guess I'll wait until September