One-line Summary:

Sing, Unburied, Sing is a haunting and powerful novel that explores themes of race, family, and the legacy of slavery in the American South.

Family Dynamics and the Legacy of Slavery

Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that delves into the lives of a troubled family living in rural Mississippi. The story is narrated by three different characters: Jojo, a thirteen-year-old boy; his drug-addicted mother, Leonie; and the ghost of a young boy named Richie. Through their perspectives, the novel explores the complex dynamics of family relationships and the lasting impact of slavery on the African American community.

Jojo, the novel’s central character, is a sensitive and perceptive young boy who is caught between the love and neglect of his parents. His mother, Leonie, is consumed by her addiction to drugs and her longing for her incarcerated boyfriend, Michael. Jojo’s father, Michael, is also haunted by his own troubled past and struggles to connect with his son. As Jojo navigates the challenges of adolescence, he finds solace and guidance from his grandparents, Pop and Mam, who provide him with a sense of stability and love.

The novel also explores the legacy of slavery and its ongoing impact on the lives of African Americans in the South. Through the character of Richie, a ghost from the past, Ward highlights the deep wounds and unresolved traumas that continue to haunt the present. Richie, a young boy who died under tragic circumstances, represents the countless lives lost and stories untold throughout history. His presence serves as a reminder of the injustices and violence that have shaped the African American experience.

Race and Identity

Sing, Unburied, Sing delves into the complexities of race and identity in America. The novel explores the ways in which race shapes individual experiences and societal perceptions. Ward skillfully portrays the struggles faced by her characters as they navigate a world that is often hostile and unforgiving.

Leonie, as a biracial woman, grapples with her own sense of identity and belonging. She is caught between two worlds, neither fully accepting her. Her experiences highlight the challenges faced by individuals who do not fit neatly into societal categories.

Jojo, on the other hand, is confronted with the harsh realities of racism at a young age. He witnesses the mistreatment of his grandfather by white police officers and experiences the fear and anger that comes with being a young black boy in a racially divided society. Through Jojo’s perspective, Ward sheds light on the systemic racism that continues to plague America.

The Power of Love and Resilience

Despite the hardships they face, the characters in Sing, Unburied, Sing find strength and solace in their love for one another. The novel explores the power of familial bonds and the resilience of the human spirit.

Jojo’s relationship with his grandparents, Pop and Mam, is a source of stability and love in his life. Their unwavering support and guidance provide him with the strength to navigate the challenges he faces. Similarly, Leonie’s love for her children, though flawed, is a testament to the enduring power of a mother’s love.

Through her lyrical prose and vivid storytelling, Jesmyn Ward crafts a powerful narrative that explores the complexities of race, family, and the legacy of slavery in America. Sing, Unburied, Sing is a haunting and deeply moving novel that leaves a lasting impact on its readers.

Key Takeaways:

• The lasting impact of slavery on African American communities
• The complexities of race and identity in America
• The power of love and resilience in the face of adversity

“Sometimes the world don’t give you what you need, no matter how hard you look. Sometimes it withholds.”