Realistic Depth and Meaningful Social Commentary
Judge's Girls is comprised of three interwoven stories from the perspective of three women as they cope with the death of a beloved patriarch in their family. Judge Joseph Donaldson has passed away unexpectedly, leaving his daughter, step-daughter, and second wife lost in a tangle of grief and tension. The story follows these women as they learn to cope with their grief and with each other, finding their own strength and serenity in the world.
Harris does an excellent job of differentiating the three main characters' voices in the novel. Each woman felt and sounded distinct, with her own point of view on the events of the story. Even more uniquely, the characters each had a strongly developed sense of emotionality and depth. Their interactions were all layered in the context of their own past experiences, resulting in believable and realistic conflicts.
I was also highly impressed with Harris's ability to add in touchstone moments of cultural commentary and education without anything feeling forced. The general premise of the story does set up a bounty of opportunities for discussions on race relations in the American South, racial bias, and the assumptions that can be made by outside observers. Hearing these things from an Own Voices author is particularly helpful and enlightening.
Harris does an excellent job of differentiating the three main characters' voices in the novel. Each woman felt and sounded distinct, with her own point of view on the events of the story. Even more uniquely, the characters each had a strongly developed sense of emotionality and depth. Their interactions were all layered in the context of their own past experiences, resulting in believable and realistic conflicts.
I was also highly impressed with Harris's ability to add in touchstone moments of cultural commentary and education without anything feeling forced. The general premise of the story does set up a bounty of opportunities for discussions on race relations in the American South, racial bias, and the assumptions that can be made by outside observers. Hearing these things from an Own Voices author is particularly helpful and enlightening.