A Tall History of Sugar

by Curdella Forbes
A Tall History of Sugar cover
Good Books rating 2.83
Magical Realism
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 3042
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781786898715
  • Publisher: Canongate Books
  • Published: 2019-10-03
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Discovered in a tangle of sea grape trees, Moshe Fisher's unusual appearance and mysterious origins make him an outcast in his community. His journey is intertwined with the bold and striking Arrienne Christie, as their complex relationship navigates the obstacles of a world scarred by colonialism and racial division. The novel begins in the late 1950s, four years before Jamaica's independence, and sweeps between rural Jamaica and an England grappling with race riots and class struggles. /n/nShortlisted for prestigious awards like the OCM Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature and the Kitschies Red Tentacle Award, A Tall History of Sugar is praised for its captivating narrative and rich, magical elements that blend seamlessly with historical and personal drama.

Reviews
Half Man, Half Book · 2020-05-22
mixed 2.50

The reviewer finds the prose to be lyrical at times but feels the novel is overwritten overall. They appreciate the effort but find it not entirely satisfying.

This review notes that 'A Tall History of Sugar' has moments of lyrical prose that stand out, but overall, the novel feels overwritten. The reviewer appreciates the effort and the unique perspective the book offers but finds it somewhat unsatisfying. They mention that while they are glad they gave the book a chance, it did not fully meet their expectations. The reviewer suggests that readers who enjoy experimental and poetic fiction might find more to appreciate in this novel.

Quick quotes

    It did feel a little overwritten at times, though there were points where the prose was quite lyrical.

    Glad I gave it a go, but it isn't really for me.

    The novel offers a unique perspective but feels somewhat unsatisfying overall.

Pile by the Bed · robertgoodman · 2020-02-03
challenging 2.00

The reviewer finds the novel to be a fractured romance that lacks a strong plot but appreciates its unique narrative structure.

In this review, robertgoodman describes 'A Tall History of Sugar' as a fractured romance that needs to be approached with an open mind. They note that the novel lacks a traditional plot, which might disappoint some readers. However, they appreciate the unique narrative structure and the way it explores themes of love and identity in a non-linear fashion. The reviewer finds the book to be a challenging but rewarding read, especially for those who enjoy experimental fiction.

Quick quotes

    A Tall History of Sugar is a fractured romance of sorts and needs to be taken as such.

    There is very little in the way of plot outside of boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy gets girl.

    It is a challenging read, but one that offers a unique perspective on love and identity.

The New York Times · 2019-10-16
enchanting 4.00

The novel is praised as a gift for fans of fairy tales and fiction that reveals hard truths. It is seen as a captivating exploration of complex themes.

This review highlights how 'A Tall History of Sugar' is a treasure for those who enjoy fairy tales and fiction that delves into profound truths. The reviewer appreciates the novel's ability to weave magic and passion with the harsh realities of life. They find the story to be a rich tapestry that explores the complexities of love, identity, and the legacy of colonialism. The reviewer is particularly drawn to the way the novel balances whimsy and grit, making it a compelling read for mature audiences.

Quick quotes

    A Tall History of Sugar is a gift for grown-up fans of fairy tales and for those who love fiction that metes out hard and surprising truths.

    The novel is a captivating exploration of complex themes that resonate deeply with the reader.

    It is a story that balances magic and reality, passion and pain, in a way that is both enchanting and thought-provoking.

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