Sing, Unburied, Sing
by Jesmyn Ward
Approximately 304 pages
This novel offers a rich exploration of family and history through a blend of magical realism and stark reality.
Difficulty
Moderate
Pace
Measured
Mood
poignant, lyrical
Book club
High
Is this book for you?
Read this if you enjoy
- deep character studies
- you appreciate lyrical prose
- you are interested in Southern Gothic themes
Consider another book if
- you prefer straightforward narratives
- you are sensitive to themes of trauma
What it is about
"Sing, Unburied, Sing" follows Jojo, a thirteen-year-old boy navigating life in rural Mississippi. He grapples with the complexities of family, race, and the legacy of trauma. Jojo's mother, Leonie, struggles with addiction and is often absent from his life.
The story unfolds as the family prepares for a road trip to pick up Jojo's father from prison. Jojo is haunted by the spirits of the past, particularly that of a young boy named Richie. The narrative interweaves the perspectives of Jojo, Leonie, and the ghosts.
Themes of memory, loss, and the search for identity are prevalent throughout. The Mississippi setting serves as a backdrop for the family's struggles and connections. The novel explores the impact of history on the present.
Ultimately, it examines the bonds of family and the ways in which the past shapes the future.
Award recognition
2017 winner
National Book Award for Fiction
United States · Fiction
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