Jesmyn Ward's Sing Unburied Sing is an award-winning novel that explores the complexities of race, family, and identity in the American South. Set in Mississippi, the novel follows a young boy named Jojo and his drug-addicted mother, Leonie, as they embark on a road trip to pick up Jojo's father from prison. Along the way, they encounter ghosts and confront their troubled pasts, leading to a haunting and unforgettable conclusion.
Book Details
| Title | Sing Unburied Sing |
| Author | Jesmyn Ward |
| Genre | Fiction |
| Published | 2017 |
| Awards | National Book Award for Fiction, Anisfield-Wolf Book Award |
The Setting
Sing Unburied Sing is set in Mississippi, a state with a rich history and culture, but also a troubled past marked by slavery, segregation, and racism. Ward's novel captures the essence of the state, from its lush forests and winding rivers to its small towns and poverty-stricken neighborhoods. Through vivid descriptions and lyrical prose, Ward transports readers to the heart of the South, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and smells of the region.
The Characters
The novel's main characters are Jojo, his mother Leonie, and his grandfather Pop. Jojo is a sensitive and perceptive boy who is forced to grow up quickly and take care of his younger sister because of his mother's addiction. Leonie is a flawed and troubled woman who struggles with her role as a mother and her own identity. Pop is a stoic and wise man who is haunted by the past and tries to keep his family together. These characters, along with the ghosts that haunt them, make for a compelling and complex story that explores the dynamics of family and the legacy of slavery.
The Themes
Sing Unburied Sing explores a number of themes, including race, family, identity, and the legacy of slavery. Ward uses her characters and their experiences to delve into these themes, showing how they are interconnected and shape each other. The novel also touches on the effects of poverty, addiction, and incarceration on individuals and communities, highlighting the struggles and challenges that many face in the South and beyond.
The Writing
One of the most remarkable things about Sing Unburied Sing is the writing. Ward's prose is lyrical and poetic, capturing the beauty and pain of the South with equal measure. Her descriptions are vivid and evocative, creating a sensory experience for the reader that is both immersive and haunting. The novel is also structured in a unique way, with multiple narrators and a non-linear timeline that adds depth and complexity to the story.
The Reception
Sing Unburied Sing has received widespread critical acclaim since its publication in 2017. The novel won the National Book Award for Fiction and the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award, and was named a finalist for the Kirkus Prize and the PEN/Faulkner Award. Critics have praised the novel for its powerful storytelling, vivid imagery, and exploration of complex themes.
FAQ
Where can I download Sing Unburied Sing PDF?
You can download Sing Unburied Sing PDF using the link provided below the article.
Is Sing Unburied Sing available in other formats?
Yes, Sing Unburied Sing is available in hardcover, paperback, audiobook, and e-book formats.
What age group is Sing Unburied Sing appropriate for?
Sing Unburied Sing is recommended for adult readers due to its mature themes and language.
What other books has Jesmyn Ward written?
Jesmyn Ward is the author of several other books, including Salvage the Bones, Men We Reaped, and Where the Line Bleeds.
Conclusion
Sing Unburied Sing is a powerful and haunting novel that explores the complexities of race, family, and identity in the American South. Jesmyn Ward's lyrical prose and vivid imagery create a sensory experience for the reader that is both immersive and unforgettable. The novel's exploration of poverty, addiction, and incarceration makes it a timely and relevant read, while its examination of legacy and memory gives it a timeless quality. Overall, Sing Unburied Sing is a must-read for anyone interested in great literature and the human experience.
