A review by cosmicbookworm
The Color Purple by Alice Walker

emotional informative inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.75

4.75 Stars rounded to 5.

I read The Color Purple by Alice Walker at this time because of the opportunity to see the most recent movie version and participate (observe) in an Instagram discussion group in the Black Space. It has been on my TBR list for years.

Walker won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1983. The novel uses an epistolary format. It is a powerful and emotionally charged work that explores racism, sexism, domestic violence, sexuality, and the oppression of women. Walker exposes the hardships faced by African American women in the early and mid-1900s, highlighting their strength, resilience, and ability to overcome adversity.

Walker's use of distinct dialects and vernacular lends an authentic voice to the characters, giving them depth and complexity. Walker effectively conveys the characters' experiences, emotions, and personal growth. The protagonist, Celie, evolves from a voiceless and submissive individual to a confident and assertive woman. Mr, also known as Albert, who is the abusive man that Celie is forced to marry, exhibits personal growth that I had trouble finding believable. The unbelievability of Albert's personal growth is my only reason for not giving this book a full five stars.

Walker has an exceptional talent. She employs vivid imagery and poetic language. She puts forgiveness on full display and is a more forgiving person than I am. My favorite quote from the book: "There is so much we don't understand. And so much unhappiness comes because of that."