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Angel of Greenwood
A historical YA novel that takes place during the Greenwood Massacre of 1921, in an area of Tulsa, OK, known as the Black Wall Street.
Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Wilson is, on the surface, a town troublemaker, but is hiding that he is an avid reader and secret poet, never leaving home without his journal. A passionate follower of WEB. Du Bois, he believes that black people should rise up to claim their place as equals.
Sixteen-year-old Angel Hill is a loner, mostly disregarded by her peers as a goody-goody. Her father is dying, and her family’s financial situation is in turmoil. Also, as a loyal follower of Booker T. Washington, she believes, through education and tolerance, that black people should rise slowly and without forced conflict.
Though they’ve attended the same schools, Isaiah never noticed Angel as anything but a dorky, Bible toting church girl. Then their English teacher offers them a job on her mobile library, a three-wheel, two-seater bike. Angel can’t turn down the money and Isaiah is soon eager to be in such close quarters with Angel every afternoon.
But life changes on May 31, 1921 when a vicious white mob storms the community of Greenwood, leaving the town destroyed and thousands of residents displaced. Only then, Isaiah, Angel, and their peers realize who their real enemies are.
Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Wilson is, on the surface, a town troublemaker, but is hiding that he is an avid reader and secret poet, never leaving home without his journal. A passionate follower of WEB. Du Bois, he believes that black people should rise up to claim their place as equals.
Sixteen-year-old Angel Hill is a loner, mostly disregarded by her peers as a goody-goody. Her father is dying, and her family’s financial situation is in turmoil. Also, as a loyal follower of Booker T. Washington, she believes, through education and tolerance, that black people should rise slowly and without forced conflict.
Though they’ve attended the same schools, Isaiah never noticed Angel as anything but a dorky, Bible toting church girl. Then their English teacher offers them a job on her mobile library, a three-wheel, two-seater bike. Angel can’t turn down the money and Isaiah is soon eager to be in such close quarters with Angel every afternoon.
But life changes on May 31, 1921 when a vicious white mob storms the community of Greenwood, leaving the town destroyed and thousands of residents displaced. Only then, Isaiah, Angel, and their peers realize who their real enemies are.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published January 12, 2021
168 people are currently reading
11031 people want to read
About the author
Randi Pink
6 books237 followersRandi Pink grew up in the South and attended a mostly white high school. She lives with her husband and their two rescue dogs in Birmingham, Alabama, where she works for a branch of National Public Radio. Into White is her fiction debut.
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November 9, 2020
My heart is destroyed.
That's a nice way to start a review, huh? Read on, my pretties.
I first discovered this book during a cover reveal on Instagram where I promptly followed the author and gushed over the cover and synopsis. It popped up on Edelweiss soon after, and I managed to grab an e-arc. Although I had a few books in the lineup before I could dive in, ANGEL OF GREENWOOD was on the back of my mind the entire time. I couldn't wait to start reading, and Randi Pink is such a sweetheart, I couldn't wait to gush some more in unsolicited DMs, as I do.
This gorgeously written book takes place in the tragic town of Greenwood, OK in 1921 where the Black communities in America were just beginning to thrive. Greenwood, entirely run by Black townsfolk, prided itself on its ability to live separate but successful lives from white people on the other side of the tracks. The entire time I read this book, I had this nagging sort of anxiety; the massacre in Greenwood was not taught in schools, but I was educated on it by other sources over the years. Nothing could have prepared me for the heartbreak.
ANGEL OF GREENWOOD centers around two teens: Isaiah, a secret poet, and admirer or our second protagonist, Angel. Angel, a dancer, and a loner who helps around town by caring for her ailing father and the colicky baby next door is a lover of Booker T Washington and believes, against Isaiah beliefs, that Blacks should slowly come into their power as opposed to rising quickly to be one with the whites. These opposing views do not stop the two from developing a friendship through their school delivering books to those in need. Amidst their budding romance, Isaiah deals with the toxic friendship with Muggy, his best friend, and the prying eyes of those who judge him for liking Angel.
This is a story of love, acceptance, and finding yourself; a story in the center of a tragedy not unlike Titanic or Pearl Harbor (sorry for the strange comps, they're all I could think of for this comparison), but different in a way that is more realistic than those two combined. Angel and Isaiah do not have an insta-love; their love is realistic and flawed as they both are. I adored watching their path through life converge with each other.
The Tulsa Race Wars were one of the most tragic events in US history. American planes were used to drop bombs on an American city. I mean, WTF. Why aren't these things taught in school? Maybe my school sucked (there's a high probabilty of that) and maybe you all learned about it, but for the majority who did not, reading about it now is utterly heart wrenching.
America commited genocide in 1921. Let that sink in.
They burned churches. Let that sink in.
They burned the Black hospital and refused to treat victims in nearby white communities. Let that sink in.
The message of hope that rises from the ashes of Greenwood is brighter than the fires that destroyed it. This book reminds us to stop erasing history, and that love overcomes tragedy.
Info on the massacre can be found here: https://www.tulsahistory.org/exhibit/...
That's a nice way to start a review, huh? Read on, my pretties.
I first discovered this book during a cover reveal on Instagram where I promptly followed the author and gushed over the cover and synopsis. It popped up on Edelweiss soon after, and I managed to grab an e-arc. Although I had a few books in the lineup before I could dive in, ANGEL OF GREENWOOD was on the back of my mind the entire time. I couldn't wait to start reading, and Randi Pink is such a sweetheart, I couldn't wait to gush some more in unsolicited DMs, as I do.
This gorgeously written book takes place in the tragic town of Greenwood, OK in 1921 where the Black communities in America were just beginning to thrive. Greenwood, entirely run by Black townsfolk, prided itself on its ability to live separate but successful lives from white people on the other side of the tracks. The entire time I read this book, I had this nagging sort of anxiety; the massacre in Greenwood was not taught in schools, but I was educated on it by other sources over the years. Nothing could have prepared me for the heartbreak.
ANGEL OF GREENWOOD centers around two teens: Isaiah, a secret poet, and admirer or our second protagonist, Angel. Angel, a dancer, and a loner who helps around town by caring for her ailing father and the colicky baby next door is a lover of Booker T Washington and believes, against Isaiah beliefs, that Blacks should slowly come into their power as opposed to rising quickly to be one with the whites. These opposing views do not stop the two from developing a friendship through their school delivering books to those in need. Amidst their budding romance, Isaiah deals with the toxic friendship with Muggy, his best friend, and the prying eyes of those who judge him for liking Angel.
This is a story of love, acceptance, and finding yourself; a story in the center of a tragedy not unlike Titanic or Pearl Harbor (sorry for the strange comps, they're all I could think of for this comparison), but different in a way that is more realistic than those two combined. Angel and Isaiah do not have an insta-love; their love is realistic and flawed as they both are. I adored watching their path through life converge with each other.
The Tulsa Race Wars were one of the most tragic events in US history. American planes were used to drop bombs on an American city. I mean, WTF. Why aren't these things taught in school? Maybe my school sucked (there's a high probabilty of that) and maybe you all learned about it, but for the majority who did not, reading about it now is utterly heart wrenching.
America commited genocide in 1921. Let that sink in.
They burned churches. Let that sink in.
They burned the Black hospital and refused to treat victims in nearby white communities. Let that sink in.
The message of hope that rises from the ashes of Greenwood is brighter than the fires that destroyed it. This book reminds us to stop erasing history, and that love overcomes tragedy.
Info on the massacre can be found here: https://www.tulsahistory.org/exhibit/...
Want to read
March 22, 2021Historical Fiction? Check ✔️
Massacre? Check ✔️
Stunning cover? Check ✔️
2021?
I will just wait here and scream until this book is released
Massacre? Check ✔️
Stunning cover? Check ✔️
2021?
I will just wait here and scream until this book is released
January 11, 2021
This was such a wonderful young adult historical fiction novel. It was written so tenderly and beautifully, telling a story of love between not only 2 teens, Angel and Isaiah, but also between Greenwood and its citizens. Prior to reading Angel of Greenwood, I had never heard of or learned about the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Seeing the tragic events of that day unfold through the eyes of Angel and Isaiah made it all the more powerful. Even though I knew what would eventually transpire, I could not turn the pages fast enough for the last quarter of the book. I experienced so many emotions while reading this novel. The events left me crying and heartbroken, but ultimately Angel of Greenwood was uplifting and hopeful. Don't let the YA genre designation fool you. This is truly a book not to be missed.
CW: Racism, Assault, Bullying, Death of loved one/family, Burning/destruction
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
CW: Racism, Assault, Bullying, Death of loved one/family, Burning/destruction
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
April 14, 2025
Oh friends.
This one grabbed my heart and wouldn’t let go. Reminiscent of The Invincible Summer of Juniper Jones this book is centered in a tragic historical event but is also about love + hope.
This YA historical fiction novel depicts the life of two teens prior to and during the Greenwood Massacre of 1921. I had never heard of this event but everyone should. On June 1, 1921, white rioters came into the peaceful town of Greenwood (a district of Tulsa, OK) and proceeded to loot + burn it down. When it was over THIRTY FIVE city BLOCKS were burnt down. 800 people were injured and over 300 dead. Let that sink in a moment. And you’ve never heard of it.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, there is something about this genre that allows complex issues and harrowing events to be told in a simple, attainable way. In this book, the author imagines and recreates the life of two high schoolers. Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Wilson is an avid reader and secret poet, never leaving home without his journal. Sixteen-year-old Angel Hill is a loner, spending all her time and energy helping those around her. Her father is dying, and her family’s financial situation is in turmoil.
The two come together when their teacher offers jobs driving the mobile library - a three wheel, two seater bike. They find they both have a passion for books but are on opposing political ideals. Isaiah follows DuBois and believe black people need to rise up. Angel follows Booker T. Washington and believes through education and tolerance, black people can rise without conflict. Neither imagines what comes next.
This book was a perfect mix of YA romance and history. The connection these two have is powerful and sweet but what happens to them is horrific. I loved their personal growth and commitment to their families and community. The author's writing makes this town come alive and this moment in history is given its rightful honor. I enjoyed the power of friendship, family, community and black resilience in this book. A truly delightful and heartbreaking read.
Thank you to @fiercereads for this beautiful book.
You can find more reviews on my BLOG.
And see what I'm currently reading and enter my daily giveaways on my BOOKSTAGRAM.
#AngelofGreenwoodtour #AngelofGreenwood #randipink #fiercereads #storygramtours
This one grabbed my heart and wouldn’t let go. Reminiscent of The Invincible Summer of Juniper Jones this book is centered in a tragic historical event but is also about love + hope.
This YA historical fiction novel depicts the life of two teens prior to and during the Greenwood Massacre of 1921. I had never heard of this event but everyone should. On June 1, 1921, white rioters came into the peaceful town of Greenwood (a district of Tulsa, OK) and proceeded to loot + burn it down. When it was over THIRTY FIVE city BLOCKS were burnt down. 800 people were injured and over 300 dead. Let that sink in a moment. And you’ve never heard of it.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, there is something about this genre that allows complex issues and harrowing events to be told in a simple, attainable way. In this book, the author imagines and recreates the life of two high schoolers. Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Wilson is an avid reader and secret poet, never leaving home without his journal. Sixteen-year-old Angel Hill is a loner, spending all her time and energy helping those around her. Her father is dying, and her family’s financial situation is in turmoil.
The two come together when their teacher offers jobs driving the mobile library - a three wheel, two seater bike. They find they both have a passion for books but are on opposing political ideals. Isaiah follows DuBois and believe black people need to rise up. Angel follows Booker T. Washington and believes through education and tolerance, black people can rise without conflict. Neither imagines what comes next.
This book was a perfect mix of YA romance and history. The connection these two have is powerful and sweet but what happens to them is horrific. I loved their personal growth and commitment to their families and community. The author's writing makes this town come alive and this moment in history is given its rightful honor. I enjoyed the power of friendship, family, community and black resilience in this book. A truly delightful and heartbreaking read.
Thank you to @fiercereads for this beautiful book.
You can find more reviews on my BLOG.
And see what I'm currently reading and enter my daily giveaways on my BOOKSTAGRAM.
#AngelofGreenwoodtour #AngelofGreenwood #randipink #fiercereads #storygramtours
April 10, 2021
The debate between which Negro leader, Booker T. Washington or W.E.B. Du Bois, staunch ideas could produce Black freedom to alleviate the pains of slavery was a major part of this novel. This historical fiction is about Isaiah Wilson and Angel Hill who are teenager's, set in May 1921, in the Greenwood section of Tulsa, OK referred to as the "Negro Wall Street of America" twelve days prior to the race riot that destroyed their home, businesses, and interrupted their life's. The race riot is a true fact. The coming of age between Angel and Isaiah is fiction.
Isaiah starts to write poetry to harness is emotions and express the conditions of the Negro and his life. He knows instinctively he must do better. He wants to become the son his deceased father, who died in WW I, would be proud to have as a son. Angel's father is dying and her mission is to help people. She wants a time out in life. Unfortunately, this is not how life works.
Quote:
Bois articulated miraculously, the shocking death of a loved one isn't a wailing thing. The real shudder comes from the world moving on as if nothing's happened.
A covert reader was what he was, but it wasn't her place to take up for him. Everyone had to hold on to their own shovel, and decide whether to dig graves deep enough for themselves.
"I don't think of this as work, though. This belongs to me. I planted it, grew it, picked it, and will soon eat it. My mother would've died for such an opportunity to work for her own pickings. Her mother, too. Working for one's own benefit is not working at all. "
"Young man," she said, not smiling anymore. "You don't speak to your elders like that, not even in this." She motioned toward the flames. "You've got to get where I've gotten to. Walk the hard journey I have walked. I deserve your respect, do you understand me?"
Isaiah starts to write poetry to harness is emotions and express the conditions of the Negro and his life. He knows instinctively he must do better. He wants to become the son his deceased father, who died in WW I, would be proud to have as a son. Angel's father is dying and her mission is to help people. She wants a time out in life. Unfortunately, this is not how life works.
Quote:
Bois articulated miraculously, the shocking death of a loved one isn't a wailing thing. The real shudder comes from the world moving on as if nothing's happened.
A covert reader was what he was, but it wasn't her place to take up for him. Everyone had to hold on to their own shovel, and decide whether to dig graves deep enough for themselves.
"I don't think of this as work, though. This belongs to me. I planted it, grew it, picked it, and will soon eat it. My mother would've died for such an opportunity to work for her own pickings. Her mother, too. Working for one's own benefit is not working at all. "
"Young man," she said, not smiling anymore. "You don't speak to your elders like that, not even in this." She motioned toward the flames. "You've got to get where I've gotten to. Walk the hard journey I have walked. I deserve your respect, do you understand me?"
January 11, 2021
4.5 stars
Absolutely gut-wrenching, but overall ultimately uplifting story focusing on two young adults in the Greenwood district of Tulsa in 1921. Although this tale culminates in the little known Tulsa Massacre, the novel explores two young people falling in love despite their differences in opinion and life choices.
The book is mostly told through the alternating points of view of Isaiah and Angel. He is a quiet poet with a passion for WEB DuBois and elevating Black people to do great things. Yet he is a follower of a bully who is cruel and harsh towards everyone and in turn Isaiah is as well. Angel is the ultimate helper, wanting to help others even while putting herself last. The two are initially adversaries but get together with the help of their teacher to bring books to others in the community. Their shared project gives them an opportunity to have some difficult discussions about their positions on issues and for their attraction to grow.
Although this is technically a young adult novel, the concepts are complex and I feel like all readers would benefit from experiencing it. There's a great deal of food for thought and pondering about history and what we are taught and what has been whitewashed out of history books.
Fantastic book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Absolutely gut-wrenching, but overall ultimately uplifting story focusing on two young adults in the Greenwood district of Tulsa in 1921. Although this tale culminates in the little known Tulsa Massacre, the novel explores two young people falling in love despite their differences in opinion and life choices.
The book is mostly told through the alternating points of view of Isaiah and Angel. He is a quiet poet with a passion for WEB DuBois and elevating Black people to do great things. Yet he is a follower of a bully who is cruel and harsh towards everyone and in turn Isaiah is as well. Angel is the ultimate helper, wanting to help others even while putting herself last. The two are initially adversaries but get together with the help of their teacher to bring books to others in the community. Their shared project gives them an opportunity to have some difficult discussions about their positions on issues and for their attraction to grow.
Although this is technically a young adult novel, the concepts are complex and I feel like all readers would benefit from experiencing it. There's a great deal of food for thought and pondering about history and what we are taught and what has been whitewashed out of history books.
Fantastic book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
May 6, 2022
Though I was looking forward to the historical aspect of this story, it simply wasn’t for me. The writing didn’t gel with what I expect from a book with such important themes. The characters didn’t read like the teenagers they were, they didn’t read like real people at all. The dialogue was so strange and so was the instalove story- especially given the fact that the lovers were literally enemies one day and in love the next, all stemming from a single praise dance performance… Nope. This wasn’t the setting for a story like this. Even with the characters lacking dimension, it was implausible.
I did enjoy the commentary around the methods posed by Booker T. Washington and W. E. B. Dubois however, and I think the author did a good job of painting the picture of intercultural leadership challenges. It didn’t start with Martin and Malcom, I’m glad the book highlighted that.
Still the book lacked the spirit I feel it wanted to portray. Also, the narrator of the audiobook didn’t do it many favors. 2 stars.
I did enjoy the commentary around the methods posed by Booker T. Washington and W. E. B. Dubois however, and I think the author did a good job of painting the picture of intercultural leadership challenges. It didn’t start with Martin and Malcom, I’m glad the book highlighted that.
Still the book lacked the spirit I feel it wanted to portray. Also, the narrator of the audiobook didn’t do it many favors. 2 stars.
October 12, 2021
This is a historical YA romance (not too heavy on the romance though, yay!) about Isaiah Wilson and Angel Hill. While they do attend the same church and go to school together, they don't know each other very well until one day, their English teacher pairs them together to help with a mobile library project. Their relationship was sweet and realistic (no insta-love, thank goodness!) with them constantly debating the teachings of Booker T. Washington (Angel's hero) and W.E.B. DuBois (Isaiah's hero).
The book also centres around the Tulsa Race Massacre, which was absolutely devastating to read about.
Prior to reading this book, I've never heard of the Tulsa Race Massacre of the District of Greenwood. In the late hours of May 31 and early hours of June 1 of 1921, a mob of white residents completely destroyed and burned down the homes and businesses of Greenwood District. At the time, Greenwood District was home to the most prominent Black businesses in the US and was known as "Black Wall Street." Clearly, many nearby white residents felt intimidated, threatened, and jealous by the success and prosperity of "Black Wall Street" and decided to destroy it, leaving nearly 10,000 Black people homeless and hundreds dead.
This book definitely did a great job informing readers about this tragic and horrific event. I also thought the character development was great. I did find that the book started off a bit slow but it did so to really establish the characters and their relationships, making you like them more and more as the story progresses.
While this book appears to be YA novel (both protagonists are 17 years old), the reading level and writing style is more suited to the younger spectrum of YA readers (perhaps for grades 6-8).
If you liked the following books, then you'll probably also enjoy Angel of Greenwood:
The book also centres around the Tulsa Race Massacre, which was absolutely devastating to read about.
Prior to reading this book, I've never heard of the Tulsa Race Massacre of the District of Greenwood. In the late hours of May 31 and early hours of June 1 of 1921, a mob of white residents completely destroyed and burned down the homes and businesses of Greenwood District. At the time, Greenwood District was home to the most prominent Black businesses in the US and was known as "Black Wall Street." Clearly, many nearby white residents felt intimidated, threatened, and jealous by the success and prosperity of "Black Wall Street" and decided to destroy it, leaving nearly 10,000 Black people homeless and hundreds dead.
This book definitely did a great job informing readers about this tragic and horrific event. I also thought the character development was great. I did find that the book started off a bit slow but it did so to really establish the characters and their relationships, making you like them more and more as the story progresses.
While this book appears to be YA novel (both protagonists are 17 years old), the reading level and writing style is more suited to the younger spectrum of YA readers (perhaps for grades 6-8).
If you liked the following books, then you'll probably also enjoy Angel of Greenwood:
January 7, 2021
A Walk to Remember meets Watchmen.
👏🏽
A glorious must-read.
Thank you Fierce Reads and NetGalley for the e-ARC!
👏🏽
A glorious must-read.
Thank you Fierce Reads and NetGalley for the e-ARC!
January 9, 2021
I just finished a book that I know very well will come back Into my thoughts at most random moments for days to comes. I am in no shape to cohesively form a review because my heart is broken into bits but the last 20% of the book was so hard to read because for one I had my eyes blurring every few seconds and then I couldn’t fathom that this is a real event that happened in the past- I kept thinking “No,no no...People can’t do this to other people, this simply can’t/ shouldn’t happen”
My mind became numb as I read the most inhumane, horrifying, utterly devastating unthinkable tragedy the author based her story on. Randi Pink had written a song- an ode to the 1921 Oklahoma massacre of the black community, the song is like a breathtaking, gut wrenching melancholy that keeps ringing in your ears for days after you first listen to it, she blended it in with the most beautiful love story I have read in such a long time- it’s not romance but a reverence, it’s poetic, pure, so intimate and Godly
______________________
Our fellow Brothers and sisters were brutally massacred and we failed them just like how we are still failing them after decades,the worst part is that we didn’t even know about this event that happened in the past until 2001. Tonight I mourn the lost lives and grieve for the pathetic state of our situation in today’s world where “safety” had become an unimaginable luxury for our fellow brothers and sisters.
If you want to learn more about this you can search for 1921 Greenwood Massacre
Trigger warning ⚠️ Assault, Massacre, Bullying , burning
My mind became numb as I read the most inhumane, horrifying, utterly devastating unthinkable tragedy the author based her story on. Randi Pink had written a song- an ode to the 1921 Oklahoma massacre of the black community, the song is like a breathtaking, gut wrenching melancholy that keeps ringing in your ears for days after you first listen to it, she blended it in with the most beautiful love story I have read in such a long time- it’s not romance but a reverence, it’s poetic, pure, so intimate and Godly
______________________
Our fellow Brothers and sisters were brutally massacred and we failed them just like how we are still failing them after decades,the worst part is that we didn’t even know about this event that happened in the past until 2001. Tonight I mourn the lost lives and grieve for the pathetic state of our situation in today’s world where “safety” had become an unimaginable luxury for our fellow brothers and sisters.
If you want to learn more about this you can search for 1921 Greenwood Massacre
Trigger warning ⚠️ Assault, Massacre, Bullying , burning
June 16, 2022
This YA NOVEL is about a period and a historical tragedy I didn’t know anything about!
Between May 31st- June 1st 1921 a black massacre happened in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Mobs of white residents attacked Greenwood Strict which was known as Black Wall Street. They burned more than 35 square blocks of the neighborhood.
This story is about love and community and it is beautifully written.
Between May 31st- June 1st 1921 a black massacre happened in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Mobs of white residents attacked Greenwood Strict which was known as Black Wall Street. They burned more than 35 square blocks of the neighborhood.
This story is about love and community and it is beautifully written.
February 11, 2021
3.5 — 𝘈𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘯𝘸𝘰𝘰𝘥 is touted as a YA novel that takes place during the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. What it actually is, is the tale of two teens as they fall in love in the days 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘱 𝘵𝘰 the Massacre. It is the depiction of a young woman full of kindness and goodness and light (Angel). It’s the story of a boy breaking free from the stranglehold of a bully and learning to stand tall (Isaiah).
The very last chapters spoke of the actual Massacre. Again, the focus was mainly on the experience through Angel’s and Isaiah’s eyes, and the ways that they – and others – flourished and rose to meet the challenge of this horrific tragedy as they helped each other and their community.
This really was a lovely read. Well, except for the end, of course. It’s just that I feel like it could have been so much more. So much was ignored in this tale, in favor of telling the love story and friendship struggles of Angel and Isaiah. The rioting Tulsans came seemingly out of nowhere, without much explanation at all. No mention of the mounting racial tensions between Greenwood and white Tulsans exists in this book. And I feel the lack of detail does the entire depiction a disservice.
I felt the same way about Pink’s debut YA novel, Girls Like Us. Frustratingly, in both books, she seems to just scratch at the surface of the issues she’s writing about, when she could dig in and make it... so much more.
Many will disagree with me on this one. Because, as mentioned, it really is a lovely tale. And the few pages that cover the Massacre 𝘢𝘳𝘦 heartbreaking. But... it was just that: a few pages. I had gone in expecting so, so much more. So you see, it’s not that I think Randi Pink wrote a sub-par novel – far from it. It’s that I believe it should have been marketed/summarized as what it truly is, rather than for maximum impact to draw people in. People still would have been drawn to the book, because it’s a good one. It’s just not the one it was promised to be.
The very last chapters spoke of the actual Massacre. Again, the focus was mainly on the experience through Angel’s and Isaiah’s eyes, and the ways that they – and others – flourished and rose to meet the challenge of this horrific tragedy as they helped each other and their community.
This really was a lovely read. Well, except for the end, of course. It’s just that I feel like it could have been so much more. So much was ignored in this tale, in favor of telling the love story and friendship struggles of Angel and Isaiah. The rioting Tulsans came seemingly out of nowhere, without much explanation at all. No mention of the mounting racial tensions between Greenwood and white Tulsans exists in this book. And I feel the lack of detail does the entire depiction a disservice.
I felt the same way about Pink’s debut YA novel, Girls Like Us. Frustratingly, in both books, she seems to just scratch at the surface of the issues she’s writing about, when she could dig in and make it... so much more.
Many will disagree with me on this one. Because, as mentioned, it really is a lovely tale. And the few pages that cover the Massacre 𝘢𝘳𝘦 heartbreaking. But... it was just that: a few pages. I had gone in expecting so, so much more. So you see, it’s not that I think Randi Pink wrote a sub-par novel – far from it. It’s that I believe it should have been marketed/summarized as what it truly is, rather than for maximum impact to draw people in. People still would have been drawn to the book, because it’s a good one. It’s just not the one it was promised to be.
February 14, 2021
This book was mind blowing and it made me cry. This book is following two young teenagers who live in the town of Greenwood which is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This book is a ya historical fiction book but also first love is involved in this book as well. Now these two teenager who soon become in love with each other have different beliefs. Angel who is a dancer and loves to help others believes in the arguments made by Booker T. Washington about waiting your turn and being patient to when the black community may rise and live amongst the white community in unity. Though Isaiah who wants to become a poet who wholeheartedly and truly believes in the arguments made by W.E.B DuBois. He believed in his methods where the black community should take what is theirs regardless of what the white community says and to also stand up to them and take no crap. Now with Angel and Isaiah they knew each other their whole loves. I would say this book could really be a enemies to lovers type deal in my opinion because Angel could not stand Isaiah and Isaiah was pretty much pretending the entire time that he could not stand her but that was because he was trying to please his friend Muggy. Muggy was pretty much the rich kid in the community because his father owns a successful business, which mind you it is black owned. Now I have mentioned the location of this story it is located in Greenwood, which is the located of the black Wall Street where all the businesses were black owned and the black community thrived. Now as Isaiah and Angel's love progresses they faced the unthinkable of having their homes and community burned down and on top of that they witnessed seeing their loved ones burned alive. Once again this book was well written and had me in tears. It is definitely a must read.
March 22, 2021
Angel and Isiah are two teens discovering love and what it means to be black in 1921 in Oklahoma. They live in the area known as the Black Wall Street thanks to the success of the black community. Angel and Isiah have seen their elders own their own business and homes with success. But there is something that is changing and it is up to them to not only save their town, but one another.
This is told in alternating POVs. Wholesome characters that have role models in the texts of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois.
This is told in alternating POVs. Wholesome characters that have role models in the texts of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois.
August 22, 2021
Full review and book photo can be found at TOMES AND TEXTILES.
I read Angel of Greenwood by @randi_pink this week & I haven’t been the same since.
🖤
This YA historical novel takes place in 1921 in Greenwood, Oklahoma. Specifically, this book begins on May 19, 1921. If you’re not familiar with the timeline of that particular place, that’s 12 days before the Tulsa Race Massacre. The story centers on Angel, a smart girl who is perceived by her small town as a loner & goodie-goodie & Isaiah, who is outwardly a bit of a troublemaker, but who has the soul of a poet. Their teacher finds them a job—to circulate books for the town’s new mobile library & it’s their love story.
🖤
It’s also a story that debates the philosophies of Booker T. Washington & W. E. B. DuBois. Interspersed through the book are quotes from each, reflecting two sides of the same philosophy & much of Angel & Isaiah’s banter revolves around the philosophical differences between these two great African American intellects.
🖤
The 3rd major character of this novel is the town. You learn about the facilities, the relationships, the gossip, the HISTORY. Greenwood (and towns like it) didn’t come from nowhere & the establishment of the town history as well as the variety of people who live there made this story LEAP from the page. Greenwood is vibrantly presented as a flourishing town. I especially appreciated Randi’s “My author’s note is an acknowledgement” at + the thorough sources list. This book is any teacher or willing student’s DREAM, honestly.
🖤
Finally, I want to mention something that struck me so tremendously about this book, not only was it meticulously researched and written incredibly tenderly and lovingly by Randi, but RANDI ACTUALLY WRITES POETRY FOR ISAIAH and when I tell you it’s stunning? OMG. How can one author do EVERYTHING in a book so perfectly?
🖤
This book is beautiful inside and out and when I tell you HOW MUCH I CRIED at the end without the brutality described in extensive detail? It was masterfully done. I can not recommend this book enough and I especially want to underscore that this book, criminally, has less than 1k reviews on Goodreads. Bookstagram, WE NEED TO CHANGE THAT!!!! Get it on your TBR STAT!!
Follow me over on BOOKSTAGRAM and TIK TOK.
I read Angel of Greenwood by @randi_pink this week & I haven’t been the same since.
🖤
This YA historical novel takes place in 1921 in Greenwood, Oklahoma. Specifically, this book begins on May 19, 1921. If you’re not familiar with the timeline of that particular place, that’s 12 days before the Tulsa Race Massacre. The story centers on Angel, a smart girl who is perceived by her small town as a loner & goodie-goodie & Isaiah, who is outwardly a bit of a troublemaker, but who has the soul of a poet. Their teacher finds them a job—to circulate books for the town’s new mobile library & it’s their love story.
🖤
It’s also a story that debates the philosophies of Booker T. Washington & W. E. B. DuBois. Interspersed through the book are quotes from each, reflecting two sides of the same philosophy & much of Angel & Isaiah’s banter revolves around the philosophical differences between these two great African American intellects.
🖤
The 3rd major character of this novel is the town. You learn about the facilities, the relationships, the gossip, the HISTORY. Greenwood (and towns like it) didn’t come from nowhere & the establishment of the town history as well as the variety of people who live there made this story LEAP from the page. Greenwood is vibrantly presented as a flourishing town. I especially appreciated Randi’s “My author’s note is an acknowledgement” at + the thorough sources list. This book is any teacher or willing student’s DREAM, honestly.
🖤
Finally, I want to mention something that struck me so tremendously about this book, not only was it meticulously researched and written incredibly tenderly and lovingly by Randi, but RANDI ACTUALLY WRITES POETRY FOR ISAIAH and when I tell you it’s stunning? OMG. How can one author do EVERYTHING in a book so perfectly?
🖤
This book is beautiful inside and out and when I tell you HOW MUCH I CRIED at the end without the brutality described in extensive detail? It was masterfully done. I can not recommend this book enough and I especially want to underscore that this book, criminally, has less than 1k reviews on Goodreads. Bookstagram, WE NEED TO CHANGE THAT!!!! Get it on your TBR STAT!!
Follow me over on BOOKSTAGRAM and TIK TOK.
June 5, 2025
4.5 stars.
Angel of Greenwood exceeded my expectations in almost every way!
The story follows Angel and Isaiah, whose perspectives it alternates between. Angel is a good girl, put on this earth to help people. She helps her sick father, her neighbour's colicky baby, and anyone else who seems to need it, all while maintaining good grades and her status as a praise dancer at her church. Isaiah tends to follow along with his best friend, one of the community's biggest troublemakers, to his own detriment. That said, he's also a sweet boy who loves reading and writes his own poetry. He has great potential if he would just go his own way. This historical fiction set in 1921 Greenwood, Tulsa, OK, tells the story of the two of them finally connecting and falling in love. Their love story is absolutely precious. He loves her dancing, she loves his poetry. They get a summer job together thanks to their English teacher offering them the chance to share books with the poorer parts of the community on a bicycle with a side car. They have spirited debates about the conflicting politics of Booker T. Washington (Angel's role model) and WEB Du Bois (Isaiah's role model), which delves into the political mindsets of the broader Black community at the time. The protagonists and the side characters are all interesting, complex, and compelling to read about. The story is engaging. Even without reality intruding, this story is a compelling piece of historical fiction and a compelling YA romance.
And yet reality must intrude. This story is set primarily in the weeks and days leading up to the Tulsa Race Massacre. It puts a personal face to the atrocities committed by white supremacists who couldn't stand to see a Black community prosper. The events of the massacre as portrayed in this book are heartbreaking, focusing on the fictional characters we came to know during the story rather than real figures, but it gives us the chance to see how the everyday people of Greenwood may have responded to the terrors they experienced. The story does end with an image of hope and a chance at a future for the survivors despite all they lost.
I will say, I think the main thing that held me back from giving it a full five stars (although I have rounded up to five here because it is still an excellent book) is that the ending felt a little rushed to me. I wish we had had more chance to explore the immediate aftermath with our protagonists. so much happens and I feel like we don't get quite as much closure on those things since we don't live through the after with the characters. Still though, it's a fantastic book.
Overall, I loved this one. Highly recommended!
Angel of Greenwood exceeded my expectations in almost every way!
The story follows Angel and Isaiah, whose perspectives it alternates between. Angel is a good girl, put on this earth to help people. She helps her sick father, her neighbour's colicky baby, and anyone else who seems to need it, all while maintaining good grades and her status as a praise dancer at her church. Isaiah tends to follow along with his best friend, one of the community's biggest troublemakers, to his own detriment. That said, he's also a sweet boy who loves reading and writes his own poetry. He has great potential if he would just go his own way. This historical fiction set in 1921 Greenwood, Tulsa, OK, tells the story of the two of them finally connecting and falling in love. Their love story is absolutely precious. He loves her dancing, she loves his poetry. They get a summer job together thanks to their English teacher offering them the chance to share books with the poorer parts of the community on a bicycle with a side car. They have spirited debates about the conflicting politics of Booker T. Washington (Angel's role model) and WEB Du Bois (Isaiah's role model), which delves into the political mindsets of the broader Black community at the time. The protagonists and the side characters are all interesting, complex, and compelling to read about. The story is engaging. Even without reality intruding, this story is a compelling piece of historical fiction and a compelling YA romance.
And yet reality must intrude. This story is set primarily in the weeks and days leading up to the Tulsa Race Massacre. It puts a personal face to the atrocities committed by white supremacists who couldn't stand to see a Black community prosper. The events of the massacre as portrayed in this book are heartbreaking, focusing on the fictional characters we came to know during the story rather than real figures, but it gives us the chance to see how the everyday people of Greenwood may have responded to the terrors they experienced. The story does end with an image of hope and a chance at a future for the survivors despite all they lost.
I will say, I think the main thing that held me back from giving it a full five stars (although I have rounded up to five here because it is still an excellent book) is that the ending felt a little rushed to me. I wish we had had more chance to explore the immediate aftermath with our protagonists. so much happens and I feel like we don't get quite as much closure on those things since we don't live through the after with the characters. Still though, it's a fantastic book.
Overall, I loved this one. Highly recommended!
February 1, 2021
I wish everyone would read this book. It is heartbreaking, inspiring, and deeply important. I know books can change the world, and I think this could be one of them.
Angel of Greenwood follows two compelling teen characters, Angel and Isaiah, as they fall in love in the thriving Greenwood District of Tulsa Oklahoma -- also known as "Black Wall Street" -- in the days before the terrible Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. Through the eyes of Angel and Isaiah, we appreciate the hard work, entrepreneurship, love, and sense of community that made Greenwood such a success -- and we also witness thought-provoking exchanges between the two about the different ideas of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois on the subjects of Black rights, liberation, and flourishing.
Randi Pink draws on the details of real history (and offers a useful bibliography at the book's end) to depict the horrifying destruction of Greenwood the place, but not Greenwood the idea.
Tulsa is my hometown, and I grew up hearing whispers about the Race Massacre. I've been following the important work of historians and storytellers and community leaders who are bringing the facts of this tragedy into the light of day. We must understand and face the past in order to make the future better. Randi Pink contributes greatly to this process with Angel of Greenwood. It works as a heartbreaking and uplifting YA coming-of-age novel, and it works as a wake up call.
The themes of this novel could not be more timely, not only because of the 100th anniversary of the massacre this year, but also because of the issues we continue to face about race today. The debate between the works of Washington and Du Bois still matters. Pink has done an immensely powerful job of teaching about this event and putting the focus on the Black excellence at the heart of Greenwood, while creating three-dimensional characters with whom readers will fall in love.
I'd love to see copies in every school in the country.
Angel of Greenwood follows two compelling teen characters, Angel and Isaiah, as they fall in love in the thriving Greenwood District of Tulsa Oklahoma -- also known as "Black Wall Street" -- in the days before the terrible Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. Through the eyes of Angel and Isaiah, we appreciate the hard work, entrepreneurship, love, and sense of community that made Greenwood such a success -- and we also witness thought-provoking exchanges between the two about the different ideas of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois on the subjects of Black rights, liberation, and flourishing.
Randi Pink draws on the details of real history (and offers a useful bibliography at the book's end) to depict the horrifying destruction of Greenwood the place, but not Greenwood the idea.
Tulsa is my hometown, and I grew up hearing whispers about the Race Massacre. I've been following the important work of historians and storytellers and community leaders who are bringing the facts of this tragedy into the light of day. We must understand and face the past in order to make the future better. Randi Pink contributes greatly to this process with Angel of Greenwood. It works as a heartbreaking and uplifting YA coming-of-age novel, and it works as a wake up call.
The themes of this novel could not be more timely, not only because of the 100th anniversary of the massacre this year, but also because of the issues we continue to face about race today. The debate between the works of Washington and Du Bois still matters. Pink has done an immensely powerful job of teaching about this event and putting the focus on the Black excellence at the heart of Greenwood, while creating three-dimensional characters with whom readers will fall in love.
I'd love to see copies in every school in the country.
May 27, 2022
A must-read!
The cover is just as stunning in person.
The ignited fury reading this book along with astounding pride of Greenwood.
Isaac, Muggy and Angel are stellar characters. I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend to everyone.
Thanks to Macmillan Children's Publishing for the eARC via Netgalley
The cover is just as stunning in person.
The ignited fury reading this book along with astounding pride of Greenwood.
Isaac, Muggy and Angel are stellar characters. I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend to everyone.
Thanks to Macmillan Children's Publishing for the eARC via Netgalley
October 23, 2023
Impossible to put down even for a moment. Such an emotional story that had so much to give. 'Angel of Greenwood' was beautiful, romantic, sad, hopeful and powerful.
I belive everyone should at least give this book a chance. Because it was such a immersive and powerful book.
I belive everyone should at least give this book a chance. Because it was such a immersive and powerful book.
January 8, 2021
(Disclaimer: I received this book from Netgalley. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
TW: assault, racism
Angel of Greenwood is a book, days after finishing, that I still don't know how to process. Pink is able to take readers on a journey of dread, joy, secrets, and thrills. Tulsa is their community of happiness in a world of strife. A world of injustice. A testament to the fact that the worst things can happen to the best of people. But at the same time, Angel of Greenwood is a love story. Pink uses the background of Tulsa, the currents of danger, to paint a sweeping portrayal of love and forgiveness.
In this Dual POV story, Angel and Isaiah are compassionate and endearing. The ways we need the bravery to be ourselves, to believe we can change. Angel of Greenwood is a story about their lives, their trials and mistakes, their joys and fears. It's a celebration of how one person can impact our life. Readers can feel the mounting tension. Knowing that the powder key is going to explode, but I was swept away in the details of Angel and Isaiah's lives. How we worry about the details of tomorrow, while not realizing it's not guaranteed.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
TW: assault, racism
Angel of Greenwood is a book, days after finishing, that I still don't know how to process. Pink is able to take readers on a journey of dread, joy, secrets, and thrills. Tulsa is their community of happiness in a world of strife. A world of injustice. A testament to the fact that the worst things can happen to the best of people. But at the same time, Angel of Greenwood is a love story. Pink uses the background of Tulsa, the currents of danger, to paint a sweeping portrayal of love and forgiveness.
In this Dual POV story, Angel and Isaiah are compassionate and endearing. The ways we need the bravery to be ourselves, to believe we can change. Angel of Greenwood is a story about their lives, their trials and mistakes, their joys and fears. It's a celebration of how one person can impact our life. Readers can feel the mounting tension. Knowing that the powder key is going to explode, but I was swept away in the details of Angel and Isaiah's lives. How we worry about the details of tomorrow, while not realizing it's not guaranteed.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
June 9, 2021
I was reviewing my highlights from this book and I found two that I think encompass what needs to be said:
"Two intelligent, passionate Black folk. Kissing freely in the middle of the street their own people owned. What a wonderful world it was." This was 70% into the book by way of citation.
"There was no way to live peacefully alongside the foe. No building by one’s own bootstraps or rising from ashes." At 78% in.
Intelligent, passionate Black people kissing that ends with them having to rise from ashes, literally. If I could tell a story in two quotes those would be it.
Angel and Isaiah are teenagers living in Greenwood that share a love of books and with different ideas about how Black people should continue to live, differing between Du Bois and Booker T. There is love and poetry, mischief and flames.
You can forget what's coming, enamored with the story, until the countdown date at the start of the chapter reminds you that history hasn't forgotten. And we shouldn't either.
"Two intelligent, passionate Black folk. Kissing freely in the middle of the street their own people owned. What a wonderful world it was." This was 70% into the book by way of citation.
"There was no way to live peacefully alongside the foe. No building by one’s own bootstraps or rising from ashes." At 78% in.
Intelligent, passionate Black people kissing that ends with them having to rise from ashes, literally. If I could tell a story in two quotes those would be it.
Angel and Isaiah are teenagers living in Greenwood that share a love of books and with different ideas about how Black people should continue to live, differing between Du Bois and Booker T. There is love and poetry, mischief and flames.
You can forget what's coming, enamored with the story, until the countdown date at the start of the chapter reminds you that history hasn't forgotten. And we shouldn't either.
June 11, 2021
* I flew through this one so I didn't have the chance to take notes
*I loved that this was set during the Tulsa Massacre which is an event that we need to talk about more and acknowledge that it happened, no matter how much it was covered up
*I also loved the characters, the descriptions of a gorgeous neighborhood, and the importance of family
*I loved that this was set during the Tulsa Massacre which is an event that we need to talk about more and acknowledge that it happened, no matter how much it was covered up
*I also loved the characters, the descriptions of a gorgeous neighborhood, and the importance of family
December 1, 2020
Another book about the history and how dark a turn it can take. I loved the characters and romance in this one. That enough though the world can be a dark place it can also have light. This book will rip out your heart and only put half of it back. It devastated me.
June 27, 2021
This was so sweet, but had lots of historical pieces about Greenwood. It made me want to learn more about Greenwood and the city before the massacre. The love story between Angel and Isaiah was precious. Perfect YA read.
April 9, 2023
3/5⭐️
Not so long ago I got interested in YA historical fiction again cause it’s a genre I’ve always loved and had set aside. However, I saw a book recommendation tiktok and got really intrigued by this one. And it’s nothing like I expected it.
I thought the main conflict of the book was the massacre specifically and that it would take up much of the story, tho it only narrated the last 15%
The rest of the book was just the main characters fighting over who had a better view about who had a better ideology, if W. E. B. Du Bois or Booker T. Washington. And falling in love with the way the other one thinks. Although, I found their romance very insta lovey. Mostly Angel tbh, like one day she hated him for mistreating her and once she found out he liked her she just started liking him too. It was very weird tbh.
Now about what I liked, the themes. Mostly about the power of words. It’s a theme I’ve always valued and something that I could honestly talk about for hours and I liked how the book portrayed it. The main characters are both readers, and their favorite authors have clashing ideologies even tho they still inspire and create thought provoking ideas.
I also had never heard of this massacre, and like this one there are many others that I will never know about cause it’s not something that it’s taught in school. I think it’s important to know what came before us and understand how people fought for their cause, how we, as a society, came to be. Understand the bravery that Black Americans had when facing white supremacy, how they didn’t lose hope in their battle. And something significant is how the author sometimes connected it to the present, to make the reader understand that the fight is still going on and it’s not something that stayed in the past.
I think this is a book that should be read in schools because of all the valuable lessons and historical knowledge to learn from it.
Not so long ago I got interested in YA historical fiction again cause it’s a genre I’ve always loved and had set aside. However, I saw a book recommendation tiktok and got really intrigued by this one. And it’s nothing like I expected it.
I thought the main conflict of the book was the massacre specifically and that it would take up much of the story, tho it only narrated the last 15%
The rest of the book was just the main characters fighting over who had a better view about who had a better ideology, if W. E. B. Du Bois or Booker T. Washington. And falling in love with the way the other one thinks. Although, I found their romance very insta lovey. Mostly Angel tbh, like one day she hated him for mistreating her and once she found out he liked her she just started liking him too. It was very weird tbh.
Now about what I liked, the themes. Mostly about the power of words. It’s a theme I’ve always valued and something that I could honestly talk about for hours and I liked how the book portrayed it. The main characters are both readers, and their favorite authors have clashing ideologies even tho they still inspire and create thought provoking ideas.
I also had never heard of this massacre, and like this one there are many others that I will never know about cause it’s not something that it’s taught in school. I think it’s important to know what came before us and understand how people fought for their cause, how we, as a society, came to be. Understand the bravery that Black Americans had when facing white supremacy, how they didn’t lose hope in their battle. And something significant is how the author sometimes connected it to the present, to make the reader understand that the fight is still going on and it’s not something that stayed in the past.
I think this is a book that should be read in schools because of all the valuable lessons and historical knowledge to learn from it.
February 22, 2022
Angel of Greenwood tells the story of two unlikely teenagers falling in love in Greenwood, Oklahoma in 1921. Angel is a star student, churchgoer, lover of Booker T Washington, and dancer who wants to take care of everyone from her ailing father to the baby next door. Isaiah loves the works of W.E.B. DuBois, writing poetry, and hanging out with the town bully, Muggy, to secure his social standing.
The two are brought together for a special summer job opportunity.
But the unexpected happens. Greenwood, a thriving Black Wall Street, is attacked and everyone will have to put aside their differences to save their town.
Beautifully written fiction about a little known piece of history.
Thanks to NetGalley for this advanced reading copy!
The two are brought together for a special summer job opportunity.
But the unexpected happens. Greenwood, a thriving Black Wall Street, is attacked and everyone will have to put aside their differences to save their town.
Beautifully written fiction about a little known piece of history.
Thanks to NetGalley for this advanced reading copy!
May 6, 2021
Although it took me awhile to get into the rhythm of this book, eventually I settled into being comfortable with the writing style and became deeply invested in the lives of the characters. Set in late May and the first day of June 1921, beginning 12 days before the Tulsa Massacre, this book follows two characters and alternates mostly between their perspectives. Both live in Greenwood, known as the Black Wall Street. Sixteen-year-old Angel Hill sticks mostly to herself, avoiding the rowdier elements of her school and neighborhood. An avid bibliophile and adherent to Booker T. Washington's philosophy on race issue [in a nutshell, go along to get along and practice patience], Angel has a generous heart and reaches out to help neighbors in need. Isaiah Wilson, 17, is a secret reader and poet, never found without his notebook. He follows the advice of W. E. B. DuBois, who urges Blacks to rise up and claim their rightful place rather than waiting for those places to be given to them. Isaiah hangs out with Muggy, the town bully, in order to avoid any undue attention to himself. He and Muddy have been among those who gave Angel a hard time, but all that changes after he sees her dancing at church and realizes that there are depths to her that he'd never imagined. They become closer and a romance blossoms when their English teacher hires them to choose and deliver books to families in need of enrichment. But they barely have time to begin the job before violence destroys their neighborhood. In the early hours of June 1, riots break out for vague reasons, possibly some alleged attack on a white woman on an elevator but most likely from emotions of envy and frustration boiling over the very existence of this affluent neighborhood. The last 100 pages of this book are absolutely riveting, intense, and troubling as Angel and Isaiah separately must save themselves and then choose to warn their neighbors of what's coming. Readers will be shocked at the violence and how the Greenwood residents seem to have been left to their own devices with nary a law enforcement agent in sight. To make matters even worse, those who have been rescued seek sanctuary at the church, but that building also becomes a target. As horrific as this event was, it is not something that is covered in today's history books or school curriculum. Readers may finish it with a sense of hopelessness and despair, but it's also important to note that even villainous characters such as Muggy behaved heroically when necessary. Ultimately, hundreds of lives were lost, many individuals were injured, and 35 blocks were destroyed. In blistering, descriptive language, the author captures the fear and desperation of those times while providing reasons for many Black Americans to doubt that they could ever be truly free and safe. After all, if these acts of terrorism, including white women breaking into stores and looting their wares, could happen in Greenwood, where else could it happen?
May 24, 2021
I first learned of the Tulsa Massacre of 1921 when I was reading a different book. At that time, I stopped reading to do a little research of my own and was shocked at what I read. I am so glad that Randi Pink has written a book centered around this horrific event. It's an important part of history that our text books have skipped over.
In Angel of Greenwood, Pink takes a unique approach to telling the story of this tragic event by focusing on the citizens of Greenwood (also known as Black Wall Street), an area of Tulsa, where Blacks had formed their own community. Greenwood was an idyllic community where Black families owned businesses and homes, lived and prospered. Pink helps us to get a feel for the people of Greenwood by introducing us to some of the residents as they go about living their lives. The florist, the woodworker, the teacher all help us to feel a kinship with this community. We also meet Isaiah, a 17 year old with a talent for writing poetry and a penchant for reading W.E.B. DuBois and Angel, a believer in Booker T.. Washington’s writing, who is a smart, strong 16 year old who loves to dance and help others in whatever way she can. Theirs is a budding love story that we follow from its inception to that horrific day.
The story of Greenwood leading up to and including that fateful day is told in alternating chapters by Angel and Isaiah. Each chapter is captioned with a date and a heading counting down the days to the massacre. (For example: "Thursday, May 19, 1921; 12 Days Before”).
The book is a loving tribute to the people of Greenwood and the victims of that cowardly act of violence. Well researched and beautifully written. A heartbreaking story that needs to be told. A hopeful, uplifting tale. A must read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ NOTE: Randi Pink is a friend of mine whose talent for writing leaves me speechless. I have absolutely loved every one of her books.
For more book reviews and recommendations follow me at #emptynestreader #instagram #facebook #Goodreads #AngelofGreenwood #RandiPink #FeiwelandFriends #historicalfiction #youngadult #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookstagramalabama #bookstagrammichigan #bookreviews #bookreviewer #bookrecommendations #Januaryreads #readalittlelearnalittlelivealittle #5starbooks
In Angel of Greenwood, Pink takes a unique approach to telling the story of this tragic event by focusing on the citizens of Greenwood (also known as Black Wall Street), an area of Tulsa, where Blacks had formed their own community. Greenwood was an idyllic community where Black families owned businesses and homes, lived and prospered. Pink helps us to get a feel for the people of Greenwood by introducing us to some of the residents as they go about living their lives. The florist, the woodworker, the teacher all help us to feel a kinship with this community. We also meet Isaiah, a 17 year old with a talent for writing poetry and a penchant for reading W.E.B. DuBois and Angel, a believer in Booker T.. Washington’s writing, who is a smart, strong 16 year old who loves to dance and help others in whatever way she can. Theirs is a budding love story that we follow from its inception to that horrific day.
The story of Greenwood leading up to and including that fateful day is told in alternating chapters by Angel and Isaiah. Each chapter is captioned with a date and a heading counting down the days to the massacre. (For example: "Thursday, May 19, 1921; 12 Days Before”).
The book is a loving tribute to the people of Greenwood and the victims of that cowardly act of violence. Well researched and beautifully written. A heartbreaking story that needs to be told. A hopeful, uplifting tale. A must read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ NOTE: Randi Pink is a friend of mine whose talent for writing leaves me speechless. I have absolutely loved every one of her books.
For more book reviews and recommendations follow me at #emptynestreader #instagram #facebook #Goodreads #AngelofGreenwood #RandiPink #FeiwelandFriends #historicalfiction #youngadult #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookstagramalabama #bookstagrammichigan #bookreviews #bookreviewer #bookrecommendations #Januaryreads #readalittlelearnalittlelivealittle #5starbooks
December 10, 2020
"We built our paradise, he'd told Isaiah, and, son, you better believe they'll want it back one day."
Lately, I've been devouring any and everything that has to do with Greenwood so I was super excited to receive an ARC of this. I went into this knowing exactly how the story would end with the bombing of Greenwood but I was pleasantly surprised by the events leading up to the domestic terrorism.
We're following the lives of two of Greenwood's promising young adults; Angel and Isaiah. Angel who believes she was put on this earth to help others, lover of dance and an avid reader, and Isaiah, a secret poet who is caught up being a follower of the town's resident bad boy.
Angel of Greenwood is an examination of friendship, love, tragedy and a must needed history lesson. Despite Angel and Isaiah's contrasting paths, the two are brought together by their English teacher because of their love of books. Angel is a staunch supporter of Booker T. Washington doesn't think the two will be able to work together because Isaiah was a fan of the more militant W.E.B. Dubois. The two quickly realize that their surface-level thoughts about each other were very wrong.
I loved how Randi also included white women's role in the destruction of Greenwood. The erasure of this act of domestic terrorism leaves folks to believe that all of the destruction was done by white men but thanks to research we know that is incorrect.
My only issue was that it was too short. I wanted to know what happened between Angel and Isaiah during the aftermath. I appreciated this fictional look into the lives of the residents of Greenwood. I found myself rooting for every single character, even the resident bad boy. I highly recommend this book to everyone as a chance to not only learn American history but to witness how the residents of Greenwood rose from the ashes to persevere.
Thank you to Netgalley, Randi Pink, and Feiwell and Friends for this ARC that warmed my historical fiction loving heart.
Lately, I've been devouring any and everything that has to do with Greenwood so I was super excited to receive an ARC of this. I went into this knowing exactly how the story would end with the bombing of Greenwood but I was pleasantly surprised by the events leading up to the domestic terrorism.
We're following the lives of two of Greenwood's promising young adults; Angel and Isaiah. Angel who believes she was put on this earth to help others, lover of dance and an avid reader, and Isaiah, a secret poet who is caught up being a follower of the town's resident bad boy.
Angel of Greenwood is an examination of friendship, love, tragedy and a must needed history lesson. Despite Angel and Isaiah's contrasting paths, the two are brought together by their English teacher because of their love of books. Angel is a staunch supporter of Booker T. Washington doesn't think the two will be able to work together because Isaiah was a fan of the more militant W.E.B. Dubois. The two quickly realize that their surface-level thoughts about each other were very wrong.
I loved how Randi also included white women's role in the destruction of Greenwood. The erasure of this act of domestic terrorism leaves folks to believe that all of the destruction was done by white men but thanks to research we know that is incorrect.
My only issue was that it was too short. I wanted to know what happened between Angel and Isaiah during the aftermath. I appreciated this fictional look into the lives of the residents of Greenwood. I found myself rooting for every single character, even the resident bad boy. I highly recommend this book to everyone as a chance to not only learn American history but to witness how the residents of Greenwood rose from the ashes to persevere.
Thank you to Netgalley, Randi Pink, and Feiwell and Friends for this ARC that warmed my historical fiction loving heart.
January 11, 2021
It might be too early to say this, but I think Angel of Greenwood will become one of my favorite books of 2021.
The YA novel follows two Angel and Isaiah, two young Black people living in the Greenwood neighborhood of Tulsa, Oklahoma in the days leading up to the Tulsa Race Riot and massacre. The two come together for a summer job running a mobile library, delivering books to poorer black areas. Despite early contention and philosophical differences (Angel is a follower of the more conservative Booker T. Washington; Isaiah prefers the teachings of the more revolutionary WEB De Bois) the two fall in love as the world around them begins to catch fire.
Pink's prose is a beautiful amalgamation of poetry and philosophy, and it's hard not to be stirred by her words. Her characters breathe from within the pages, and the Greenwood she rebuilds is as vibrant and tangible as the community around me (perhaps more so--I've been quarantining since March). I read Angel of Greenwood in one sitting, even as my back grew sore and my legs cramped, and upon finishing I immediately ordered a copy for my shelves. I then sat for hours, thinking of how Angel and Isaiah's stories answer the question posed by Angel's father in the opening, and show how mercy and truth have and must intertwine.
I received an advance copy of Angel of Greenwood from Netgalley and Feiwel & Friends (MacMillan Publishing Group) in exchange for my honest review.
The YA novel follows two Angel and Isaiah, two young Black people living in the Greenwood neighborhood of Tulsa, Oklahoma in the days leading up to the Tulsa Race Riot and massacre. The two come together for a summer job running a mobile library, delivering books to poorer black areas. Despite early contention and philosophical differences (Angel is a follower of the more conservative Booker T. Washington; Isaiah prefers the teachings of the more revolutionary WEB De Bois) the two fall in love as the world around them begins to catch fire.
Pink's prose is a beautiful amalgamation of poetry and philosophy, and it's hard not to be stirred by her words. Her characters breathe from within the pages, and the Greenwood she rebuilds is as vibrant and tangible as the community around me (perhaps more so--I've been quarantining since March). I read Angel of Greenwood in one sitting, even as my back grew sore and my legs cramped, and upon finishing I immediately ordered a copy for my shelves. I then sat for hours, thinking of how Angel and Isaiah's stories answer the question posed by Angel's father in the opening, and show how mercy and truth have and must intertwine.
I received an advance copy of Angel of Greenwood from Netgalley and Feiwel & Friends (MacMillan Publishing Group) in exchange for my honest review.
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