4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
"If you don't believe in inner beauty, then you ain't nothing but a caged butterfly." Addie Mayfield
The Caged Butterfly by author Marian L. Thomas is the heartrending story of the Mayfield/Taylor family spanning four generations ranging from the 1930s-1990s. While the character-driven plot touches on relevant social issues such as child abuse, racism, skin bleaching, and suicide, ultimately it is a story of love and forgiveness.
The book begins with Addie Mayfield's loving letter to her unborn child which plays a central theme throughout the plot. As the story unfolds, the reader is introduced to Addie's mother, son, and granddaughter: Millie, Timmy, and Nina. Alternating between the cities of Georgia, Chicago, and New York, and told through first-person narratives by each character, the plot follows the family's history, relationships, triumphs, and sorrows. The book emphasizes self-acceptance, forgiveness, and redemption regardless of life's hardships.
Every so often, I have the pleasure of getting lost in a book that I know will stay with me. The author's writing style pulls in the reader and seamlessly weaves the plot between generations and different geographical cultures. Rich in dialogue and featuring a memorable cast of well-developed characters, The Caged Butterfly will not be soon forgotten. Reminiscent of The Help, though there are many bittersweet moments in the story, there are also instances of joy and humor.
What I enjoyed most about this book were the realistic dialogues between characters. Whether it was Millie and Jean dishing about the neighborhood residents over biscuits and gravy, or Boney Bass Bryan imparting street-sense smarts to Tim, the conversations were thoroughly engaging. Tossed in the mix were gems of wisdom such as, "Rich folks got too many issues trying to stay rich," and "If you got to lay down in wrinkled sheets, just remember who did the wrinkling."
As much as I loved the book, I found it hard to define an aspect I disliked. However, without exposing any spoilers, there were a few circumstances where tragedies seemed abrupt, leaving me feeling a little shell-shocked. Even so, these issues were resolved later in the plot and didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the book.
It's evident the book was professionally edited, as I noted only one error. I'm pleased to give this well-written book 4 out of 4 stars. The intricate plot will appeal to an eclectic audience. Readers who enjoy books about family relationships and related social issues will appreciate it. Fans of The Help will likely enjoy this book, too.
******
The Caged Butterfly
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like Cecilia_L's review? Post a comment saying so!
Hope you enjoy the book!
