Review of A Long Thanksgiving

[Shiru Elizabeth]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Long Thanksgiving" by Shola Ojelade.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Shola Ojelade's geopolitical novel A Long Thanksgiving explores contradictions and conflicts in American society by using the holiday as a backdrop. The range of subjects covered includes politics, racism, gender issues, and marriage. 

The family Thanksgiving setting is used by the author to discuss many social concerns and spark fascinating discussions amongst the book's characters. The conflict between Darius and Planta over many social concerns is discussed throughout this Thanksgiving dinner, along with additional conflicts involving other family members like Mama T and Misti. The contradiction in problems in today's America is mostly reflected in the subtleties on both sides of the debate that are brought up, debated, and ultimately left unresolved. Suppressed middle class resentment and unspoken family secrets are exposed, revealing startling new information.

This is one of the first novels I've read in a while that genuinely and candidly addresses themes of racism and gender equality. It was incredibly helpful to read about this topic and hear other people's perspectives. I particularly enjoyed the many viewpoints that each character had to offer, as well as the way they occasionally but not always described their circumstances without showing bias. Almost all of the subjects were interesting to me, but the one about cars and firearms causing deaths and the need to outlaw guns since they directly affect people's lives was one that I found particularly compelling. Guns, in my opinion, have a greater negative impact on people's lives than autos. Guns aren't as useful as cars, which facilitate transportation. I'll stop here since I might start a conversation with this. I had a great time reading this book and learning about the subjects covered.

This book receives a rating of five out of five stars from me. An excellent and instructive book to pass the time while reading. Throughout reading this book, I didn't spot any obvious errors. Bravo to the editors. For those who appreciate reading about social concerns or politics in general, I would suggest this book. They are going to love it.

******
A Long Thanksgiving
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Prohlife Jobs]

These are not necessarily topics one would discuss around the dinner table, especially at thanksgiving. I want to know how these conversations ensued, as well as the outcome. A book worth reading.

[Akinsemoyin Adeola]

I can't imagine discussing serious issues like politics, racism during thanksgiving, I guess that's why the title is a long Thanksgiving. Great review.