It was a slow reading week, but the books I read were quite memorable:
The House is on Fire by Rachel Beanland: My verdict: READ IT!
It’s the winter season of 1811 in Richmond, VA. The city’s only theater is packed. It’s the height of the social season, the Assembly is in session, and many of the wealthy planters & their families have come to Richmond for the winter. When the theater goes up in flames during the performance, the reader follows four characters whose decisions will determine the fate of not only their lives, but the lives of many others.
Based on a true disaster, the author excelled at crafting characters who, despite having vastly different backgrounds, were in one singular location at the time of a horrific tragedy. The fire was a perfect vehicle to bring to light the various social travesties prevalent at the time, including abuse of slaves, racism, and more. What transpired as the theater-goers fled the scene of the fire and the days that followed allowed many of those in power to be seen what they really are, horrific, selfish individuals who were only out for their own safety and protection. A stunning piece of historical fiction!
The Perishing by Natashia Deón My verdict: READ IT (then discuss it)
I’m intentionally NOT giving a summary of this book. This was my second time reading it; I needed a refresher before my book club discussion. This is not a book you read in one sitting, or you try to rush through. Rather, it’s one that must be savored, reflected upon, and then discussed. I genuinely feel that each reader will have their own personal response to this title. There are a lot of unanswered questions. There was a lot that could have been expanded upon; I don’t know if it was cut out in editing or never there to begin with. That said, if you have patience with this book, and have the opportunity to read it and discuss it with a group, do so!
Coming up on my shelf next week:
The Last Housewife by Ashley Winstead
Sisters of the Lost Nation by Nick Medina
The Cherished by Patricia Ward
What books did you read this week? Any you have coming up to read you are excited about?
One Response to On My Shelves This Week: Burning Theaters, Black Immortals