Men We Reaped

Men We Reaped cover
Good Books rating 4.0

Technical:
  • ID: 677
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • Formats: 47
  • Reviews: 3
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Reviews
Novels & Teacups · 2022-09-09
illuminating 4.50

The non-linear structure of the memoir adds depth to the narrative, weaving together personal and societal reflections. It's a brutal yet illuminating account of loss and resilience.

The reviewer praises the non-linear structure of the memoir, which they believe adds a layer of complexity and richness to the story. By jumping between different timelines, Ward effectively illustrates the interconnectedness of the events and the lasting impact of loss. They find the memoir to be brutally honest, yet incredibly illuminating, as it sheds light on the deep-seated issues of race and poverty in the Deep South. The reviewer appreciates Ward's ability to balance personal grief with broader societal commentary, making the book both a deeply personal and universally relevant read.


Quick quotes

    The novel isn't linear, but instead weaves its way through the timeline of Jesmyn's life and the deaths of these five young men.

    An illuminating, brutal memoir of loss in the Deep South.

    The structure adds depth to the narrative, weaving together personal and societal reflections.

The Guardian · 2014-03-06
harrowing 3.50

This memoir is a heavy read, filled with tragic tales of loss and hardship. It's a powerful exploration of grief and the impact of systemic issues on young lives.

The reviewer notes that this book is not for the light-hearted, as it delves into deeply tragic events. The memoir is a raw and unflinching look at the deaths of five young men close to the author, each story intertwined with themes of poverty, race, and systemic failure. They highlight the emotional weight of the book, which serves as both a personal and societal critique. The reviewer appreciates the boldness and honesty with which Ward confronts these issues, making it a necessary read despite its heaviness.


Quick quotes

    This book is not for the light-hearted.

    Tragic tales of young people's lives cut short.

    A powerful exploration of grief and the impact of systemic issues.

The New York Times · 2013-09-17
elegiac 4.00

The memoir is an elegiac and rangy work that reaffirms Ward's substantial talent. It's a poignant reflection on loss and memory.

The reviewer describes the memoir as an elegiac and rangy work, highlighting Ward's substantial talent for storytelling. They note that the book is a poignant reflection on loss, particularly the death of Ward's brother, and how it intertwines with the broader societal issues affecting the African American community in the South. The reviewer appreciates the depth of emotion and the thoughtful exploration of memory and grief, making it a compelling and moving read. They believe Ward's ability to weave personal narrative with broader themes makes this memoir a standout work.


Quick quotes

    Men We Reaped reaffirms Ms. Ward's substantial talent.

    An elegiac book that's rangy at the same time.

    She thinks back about her brother, and the lives of the other young men lost.