Behind the Waterline by Kionna Walker Lemalle

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Imminently readable and told through the eyes of an attractive and empathetic character, Behind the Waterline chronicles not only the immediate physical, emotional, and mental wounds left behind by Hurricane Katrina, but the discoveries it leads to in young Eric's life. Using a child's point of view allows Lemalle to explore new territory associated with that tragic occurrence. Through the use of strong character shaping of Eric, Ruth, and Pastor Charles, supported by a host of minor characters, the reader is pulled into the present and the pasts of multiple generations, some known, and some unknown. Using the literary approach of magical realism, the author reveals facts to the reader that the characters won't know until the book's climax. Groups will find much to discuss, from the historic events of Katrina and the forced integration of Ole Miss to family relationships, the enduring harm caused by racism, the trafficking in human infants, and how humans find strength they did not know existed through terrible challenge. For book clubs who want to be adventurous and discuss the literary aspects of the novel, Lemalle's turning of the traditional metaphor of water as baptism into new life on its head will provide rich matter. The novel teaches as it entertains and provides a fine example of the fact that with tragedy can come some positives.



View all my reviews
In the Company of Patriots