Play Book Tag discussion

I am having a hard to deciding what to write for this review. Did this book make me uncomfortable? Yes. Did this book make me question my own believes? Yes. Did this book make me think that perhaps I'm part of the problem? Yes. As a white woman, I definitely cannot know what it feels to be a black man in America. However, by reading Coates' letter to his son, I feel that he clearly articulated some of the issues facing the black community.

I listened to the audio which is narrated by Coates himself. I feel that this is a plus and minus. Certainly the authors passion comes across in the narration, however, as is often the case in an audio, I feel that I would like to go back and actually read and admire the written word. The imagery and repetitive phrasing brought to mind the book The Things They Carried (another book about a difficult subject). I am happy that I read this, because I do feel that there is an important message. Of course, during the time that I was reading it, the message was emphasized with 2 more killings of unarmed black men by the police. At the same time, the book left me at a loss as to what can be done to get us out of this horrible situation.

JoLene wrote: "I am having a hard to deciding what to write for this review. Did this book make me uncomfortable? Yes. Did this book make me question my own believes? Yes. Did this book make me think that perhaps..."

Glad you were able to get to this one along with the rest of us. And I was with you on writing the review - - it was hard to assess! And I almost felt like I wasn't actually qualified to assess what was written other than the use of the language (which I thought was fabulous).

I agree Anita, I thought his use of language was great.

It's a sensitive subject and it did help enlighten me. I ended up buying a copy because I want to actually read it. The audio was great as he is the narrator, but I think reading will be a different experience as well because I tend to be more engaged.

JoLene wrote: "I agree Anita, I thought his use of language was great.

It's a sensitive subject and it did help enlighten me. I ended up buying a copy because I want to actually read it. The audio was great as ..."

I'm terrible with audio, but very glad I read this one because I was highlighting a lot and thinking a lot and needed the time to do that! So I think you will appreciate the written version.