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An American Marriage

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In "An American Marriage," author Tayari Jones explores the devastating impact of a wrongful imprisonment on a young, married couple, Roy and Celestial. The narrative delves into their struggles to maintain their relationship while dealing with the challenges of separation and evolving feelings. Through multiple perspectives and letters, the story unfolds, highlighting the complexities of love, injustice, and the harsh realities of life.

The plot of "An American Marriage" is characterized by its heart-wrenching and realistic portrayal of the characters' experiences. Tayari Jones weaves a tale that grapples with themes of loss, resilience, and the complexities of human emotions. The novel navigates the intricate dynamics between the characters, exploring the moral dilemmas they face and the impact of societal injustices on their lives.

Characters:

The characters are intricate and flawed, each representing different perspectives on love, loyalty, and societal challenges.

Writing/Prose:

Tayari Jones uses lyrical prose and authentic dialogue to create a deeply emotional narrative that shifts among multiple perspectives.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot involves a young black couple's marriage tested by wrongful incarceration, showcasing the complexities of love, loyalty, and societal issues.

Setting:

The setting primarily takes place in Atlanta and Louisiana, providing a backdrop that informs the characters' challenges and cultural context.

Pacing:

The pacing balances between reflective moments and intense character-driven encounters, maintaining reader engagement throughout.
There are two kinds of people in the world, those who leave home, and those who don’t. I’m a proud member of the first category. My wife, Celestial, used to say that I’m a country boy at the core, but...

Notes:

The plot follows a young black couple, Roy and Celestial, whose marriage is tested when Roy is wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit.
The story explores themes of race, injustice, and the complexities of modern marriage in America.
The narrative is told from multiple viewpoints: Roy, Celestial, and their friend Andre, which adds depth to the characters and their struggles.
The book uses a unique epistolary format, incorporating letters between characters to show their feelings and the emotional distance that develops over time.
The characters show a range of emotions and flaws, making them relatable despite their poor choices.
The book examines how incarceration impacts not only the individual but also their family and friends.
It highlights systemic issues within the American justice system, particularly how it disproportionately affects African American men.
The title reflects the broader themes of marriage and commitment in challenging circumstances, making it relevant beyond just the racial aspect.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of wrongful imprisonment, racism, infidelity, and emotional distress.

Has Romance?

While there is a romance element present in the relationships depicted, it is complicated by the circumstances surrounding the characters, making it less traditional and more nuanced.

From The Publisher:

A New York Times Bestseller

A New York Times and Washington Post Notable Book

A Best of the Year Selection of NPR, Time, and O, The Oprah Magazine

An Oprah�'s Book Club Selection

Longlisted for the National Book Award for Fiction

Newlyweds Celestial and Roy are the embodiment of both the American Dream and the New South. He is a young executive, and she is an artist on the brink of an exciting career. But as they settle into their life together, Roy is arrested and sentenced to twelve years for a crime Celestial knows he didn� t commit. Celestial finds herself bereft and unmoored, taking comfort in Andre, her childhood friend, and best man at their weeding. As Roy�'s time in prison passes, she is unable to hold onto the love that has been her center. After five years, Roy�'s conviction is suddenly overturned, and he returns to Atlanta ready to resume their life together. PIM 23-APR-19 01.

Ratings (21)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (8)
Liked It (8)
It Was OK (3)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (50):

Read It (20)
Want To Read (23)
Not Interested (7)

2 comment(s)

Did Not Like
5 months

I found this book to be really dull and I didn’t like celestial. She didn’t feel genuine

 
Loved It
2 years

An American Marriage is a book that mirrors the experience of a couple under the oppressive boot of bad luck and the limitations of the justice system.

Celestial and Roy are in love. Would it ever be enough?

Tayari's take on the story is both nuanced and evocative.

 

About the Author:

Tayari Jones is the author of four novels, including Silver Sparrow, The Untelling, and Leaving Atlanta. Jones holds degrees from Spelman College, Arizona State University, and the University of Iowa. A winner of numerous literary awards, she is a professor of creative writing at Emory University. Visit her website at www.tayarijones.com.

 
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