Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison
The novel explores the life of an African-American man, Macon "Milkman" Dead III, from birth to adulthood. Set against the backdrop of racial tension in the mid-20th century United States, it delves into his journey of self-discovery and understanding his heritage. As Macon embarks on a literal and figurative journey south to reconnect with his roots, he encounters various characters that help him understand his family history and the power of community. The narrative is deeply rooted in African-American folklore and mythology, offering a profound commentary on identity, personal freedom, and the destructive power of racism.
The 144th greatest book of all time
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This book is on the following lists:
- 25th on Radcliffe's 100 Best Novels (Radcliffe Publishing Course)
- 52nd on Entertainment Weekly's Top 100 Novels (Entertainment Weekly)
- 70th on In Which These Are the 100 Greatest Novels (ThisRecording.com)
- 79th on The 100 Greatest Novels of All Time: The List (The Observer)
- 93rd on Harvard Book Store Staff's Favorite 100 Books (Harvard Book Store)
- 333rd on Our Users' Favorite Books of All Time (The Greatest Books Users)
- Donald Barthelme’s Reading List (Believer Mag)
- National Book Critics Circle Award - Fiction (National Book Critics Circle)
- How to Read and Why (Harold Bloom)
- How to Read Literature Like a Professor: A Reading List (Thomas C. Foster)
- 100 Best Novels Written in English (The Guardian)
- 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die (The Book)
- The New York Public Library's Books of the Century (New York Public Library)
- The ZORA Canon: The 100 greatest books ever written by African American women (Zora)
- Harold Bloom's The Western Canon (The Western Canon (Book) by Harold Bloom)
- The Booklist Century: 100 Books, 100 Years (BookList)
- The Great American Novels (The Atlantic)
- 75 Books by Women Whose Words Have Changed the World (Women's National Book Association)
- The 75 Best Books of the Past 75 Years (Parade Magazine)