Reviews

an incomparable writer; great insights into the minds of seven completely different women, heart wrenching, chilling, incredible dialogue, would recommend to both readers and writers alike

greenjess's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional hopeful inspiring sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Brief Synopsis:
The Women of Brewster Place is a novel that tells the stories of seven Black women living in a decaying urban neighborhood. The women face various personal struggles, from heartbreak and unfulfilled dreams to oppression and marginalization. The novel explores their lives, their endurance, and the sense of community they build as they navigate their hardships.

Basic Themes:
Key themes include resilience in the face of adversity, the importance of community and sisterhood, and the effects of systemic oppression, particularly against women of color. Gloria Naylor also delves into themes of loneliness, sexuality, and the quest for identity and belonging.

Judgement of Writing Style:
Naylor’s writing is lyrical, rich, and deeply evocative. She masterfully weaves together multiple voices and perspectives, creating a tapestry of interconnected lives. Her use of vivid imagery and emotional depth gives life to each character's experiences, and she balances their internal struggles with broader social issues effortlessly.

Who Should Read the Book:
This novel will appeal to readers interested in character-driven stories that focus on the lives of marginalized people, particularly women of color. If you enjoy books that explore social justice, community, and the complexity of human relationships, this is a must-read.

How It Made Me Feel:
Reading The Women of Brewster Place evoked a mixture of sorrow, empathy, and hope. The stories are emotionally charged, and you can feel the weight of each character's struggles. At the same time, there is a sense of resilience and solidarity that offers moments of optimism, despite the harsh realities the characters face.

Summary of What Happened (No Spoilers):
The novel follows the interconnected lives of seven women who live in Brewster Place, a run-down apartment complex. Each woman has a distinct story—some are seeking love, others redemption, and some simply a way to survive. Their lives intersect in meaningful ways, showing how shared experiences of hardship can unite people in unexpected ways.

Loved or Hated & Why:
I loved the book for its deeply human portrayal of struggle, survival, and resilience. Naylor’s characters feel real, their pain palpable, and their stories are moving. The way she handles heavy themes with nuance and empathy is particularly impressive. The novel is both heartbreaking and empowering, a rare combination that makes it stand out.

How Well the Book Achieved Its Goal:
Naylor achieved her goal of painting a vivid picture of the lives of marginalized women. The novel offers a profound commentary on social injustice while remaining deeply personal and intimate. Her characters' stories illuminate the complexities of race, gender, and class in America, making the book not only a great work of fiction but a powerful social critique.

Recommend or Not and Why:
I would highly recommend The Women of Brewster Place. It’s a poignant, thought-provoking novel that will resonate with anyone interested in human resilience and the bonds that form between people in difficult circumstances. Its relevance to discussions of systemic injustice and female empowerment makes it an important and timeless read.

Describe My Favorite Character:
My favorite character is Mattie Michael, a mother figure to many of the other women. Her warmth, wisdom, and inner strength stand out. She embodies resilience and compassion, despite facing her own deep personal tragedies. Mattie’s role as a cornerstone of the Brewster Place community is inspiring—she offers comfort and support when others need it most, making her an unforgettable presence in the novel.

Content Warnings

patdg's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

Usually, I feel that books are better than their adaptations however having watched the series during the first lockdown in 2020 and feeling connected to it, I was very happy that the book and series were harmonious.

I loved the power in the 7 stories which made up The Women of Brewster Place. Definitely will be be reading this again and recommending it to anyone who wants to listen.