Their Eyes Were Watching God By Zora Neale Hurston

Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston was such a good read! Most books I read, I am listening along to the audiobook either on Audible or Audiobooks. I like my characters to come to life and with the audiobook this is way more possible. I feel like I’m fully immersed in the book and I can imagine what the book would look like if it were a movie or play. Yes my imagination is still that vivid at 28 lol

The storyline was nothing short of relatable. I figured that’s what life was really like back then. Black women didn’t have a voice. Either they weren’t given the opportunity or ignored when they did speak up. The way that Zora gave a voice to characters who historically never had one was amazing. The allies that they were given were heart warming. It wasn’t until I finished the book did i realize how much each character’s age mattered. I actually see and appreciate the use of youth in many of the books I’ve read. Such an important message about new ideas and perspective. No doubt, it can be a challenge not projecting our own fears on others or oversharing opinions. HOWEVER, we should hold our opinion until it’s requested OR boundaries you’ve created are being crossed. These things are bound to happen, which is why it’s important for us to stay focused on the main thing. It’s easy to stay focused when things are going smoothly, the challenge is when the water starts rising.

Overall, I give it an 8/10. There were some parts that were challenging to read because they were written so authentically . Without giving too much away, I think there were some portions of the novel were rushed. I know it would’ve made the book longer but I think it would’ve served the book well. Biggest takeaway would be to do what’s best for you with the time you have left.

Favorite Quote: “It is so easy to be hopeful in the daytime when you can see the things you wish on. But it was night, it stayed night.”