Their Eyes Were Watching God

Author: Zora Neale Hurston

Originally published in 1937, Their Eyes Were Watching God is still relevant today. The story explores topics such as race, gender inequality, independence, and community.

At the center of the story is Janie Crawford, a strong Black woman who has an independent spirit and the strength to find her own way in life. Janie has her autonomy taken at a young age when she is forced to marry an older man, but where her story begins is not where she settles. Janie is a force. I love her zest for life, unabashed sexuality, and endless courage to carry on.

I would recommend this book to everyone. It portrays this southern Black community in an honestly human way with levity and pride and pain and worthiness. The vernacular is tough to get a hold of at first, but it soon becomes a seamless and necessary part of the story. Also, this book is on the Banned Books List, so of course you should read it! If it’s banned, it has something important to say. Pick this one up today!

You can purchase it here: Their Eyes Were Watching God

-Reviewed by Julie Wolinski
(@booksencouraged on IG)