ruby by cynthia bond

Ruby: A Novel by Cynthia Bond
352 pages

What’s it about?
This novel is about race, gender and love.  The story takes place in the deep south during the 1930’s.  A young black boy falls in love with a young black girl and he never forgets her. 
What did it make me think about?
This book took on the difficulties of both race and gender.  How incredibly difficult it must have been to be a woman- especially a black woman in the South in the 1930's.  The writing is incredible.
Should I read it?
It will break your heart but you should definitely read it!!!
Quote-
"When she got older and she began smelling like the wash she was taking in, Ruby saw it crush something inside her. For Maggie was meant to be the king of something. She was meant to puff out her chest and conquer worlds. But Ruby watched her join the army of black folks dragging off to Newton, their souls crumpled in their handkerchiefs until supper time. And while Maggie didn't droop her head as much as the rest, it still fell a bit to fit through the door of servitude."
Question-
What do you think sustains Ruby through all the years?

If you liked this book you might also like-
Beloved by Toni Morrison 
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou 
Father of the Rain by Lily King 

9 1/2 STARS