Red at the Bone

5/5 stars

Iris was 16 when she became pregnant with Melody. Her coming of age ceremony never happened. Now Melody is 16 and preparing for her own ceremony while wearing the dress meant for her mother. Surrounded by her family, Melody makes her grand entrance and we learn about the successes and tragedies of this family. 

This was a powerful read that travels back and forth in time to follow Melody’s family. Dynamics and relationships are explored as the reader gains insight into how each character made it to this night. This novel tells the complex and diverse stories of love and sacrifice between Melody’s grandparents, parents, and Melody herself. These poignant stories are interspaced with necessary passages tackling tough issues including, race and privilege. This is truly a beautiful story I could relate to and felt it in my core.