A review by clairebartholomew549
The Edge of Water by Olufunke Grace Bankole

emotional informative reflective sad medium-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

4.0

I enjoyed this book a lot. We follow a mother, Esther, and daughter, Amina, in Nigeria as they deal with their patriarch's infidelity, abuse, cruelty, and indifference, and then as the daughter moves to New Orleans and has to face Hurricane Katrina. The cornerstone of this book is definitely Esther and Amina's relationship, and I felt deeply for both mother and daughter throughout this book. Bankole beautifully depicts a parent's desire for their child to have a better life than them, and also how painful it can be when your child actually leaves and goes after their dreams. The narrative moves seamlessly between Esther, Amina, and their Yoruba goddess; between Nigeria and New Orleans; and throughout time. I was moved by the book's exploration of what it means to belong to a place and to people, and this book was fast and impactful.

Thank you to NetGalley and Tin House for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review!

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