On Morrison
by
98/99
Critics' Rating Index
85/99
Readers' Rating Index
n/a
Scholars' Citation Index
92/99
Volume of Reviews
69/99
Volume of Reader Ratings
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About This Book
An illuminating, electrifying exploration of the work of Toni Morrison by an award-winning novelist and Harvard professorToni Morrison, Nobel Laureate and one of our most beloved writers, has inspired generations of readers. But her artistic genius is often overshadowed by her monumental public persona, perhaps because, as Namwali Serpell puts it, "she is our only truly canonical black, female writer—and her work is highly complex." In On Morrison, Serpell brings her unique experience as both an award-winning writer and professor who teaches a course on Morrison to illuminate her masterful experiments with literary form.This is Morrison as you've never encountered her before, a journey through her oeuvre—her fiction and criticism, as well as her lesser-known dramatic works and poetry—with contextual guidance, archival discoveries, and original close readings. At once accessible and uncompromisingly rigorous, On Morrison is a primer not only on how to read one of the most significant American authors of all time, but also on how to read great works of literature in general. This dialogue on the page between two black women artist-readers is stylish, edifying, and thrilling in its scope and intelligence.
Reviews
"On Morrison offers readers who can tell their Soaphead Church from their Schoolteacher something they have long hoped for: a rigorous appraisal of the work ..."
"Subjects the Nobel laureate's work to rigorous inspection — with thrilling results ..."
"Serpell explains that some gaps in her book stem from extraordinary events ..."
"Can only come from intimate knowledge and diligent intent."
"A vital addition to this already rich conversation ..."
"This is informed, accessible literary analysis that demonstrates that Morrison's true genius was as a stylist."
"Insightful and stimulating ..."
"Academic yet accessible, this astute collection offers insight and fresh perspectives and will appeal to readers new to and deeply familiar with Morrison's vital body of work."
"Serpell doesn't deliver a big takeaway."
"An impressive, nuanced work of scholarship."
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