The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison is a quick read, but by no means is it easy or light. With subjects of poverty, inc*st, and racial self-loathing (Morrison’s own description), it is difficult at times to read.
It starts off with a sappy reading of Dick and Jane, and continues on with why not all homes are the same as Dick and Jane’s. Morrison draws each character so well, and 11 year-old Pecola, especially, is a girl I won’t soon forget. My edition had an afterward by the author which gave even more insight into what she was trying to accomplish with this book.
Although The Bluest Eye was very depressing, I can see why Morrison has many fans. I hope to get to Beloved later this year.
1970, 206 pp.
Rating: 
hi michelle! i’ve got toni morrison on my TBR and am eying “beloved” as my first read. been realizing that difficult reads are usually very satisfying, but DIFFICULT. hehe.
it would be great if you could post this on readthenobels.blogspot.com! we’re a very silent group!
I’ve read Beloved and it’s great, too. I’m excited to hear your thoughts on it.
I remember feeling quite dissatisfied when I read this book; it was depressing.
I always take a deep breath just before I read a Morrison novel because I know that I’m going to be in for a well-written, depressing ride. I read THE BLUEST EYE for a class and, frankly, I think if I hadn’t had to complete it within a specified time I probably would have put it down and come back to it years later. I’ve read BELOVED as well, and I thought it was even more difficult than THE BLUEST EYE. It was an excellent read, and one I hope to have the courage to pick up again. I think the difficultly of Morrison’s material is always worth it.
I read this one and had a difficult time with it, too. I wouldn’t have finished it if it hadn’t been required. But it challenged me; it’s impossible to read without growing in compassion.
I have avoided Morrison because I’ve heard how depressing her books are. Maybe I should just take the plunge.
I read this a couple of years ago and recently recommended it to my mom. I agree that it is a depressing book but it’s very well written.
Agree, very difficult to read at times, but well worth it.
I just started reading this book. It is a very depressing book to read, and was part of my motivation in the topic of my Sunday Salon entry this week. I can’t say I ever really enjoy reading Toni Morrison’s books, but they do give you something to think about.
It seems that all Morrison books are deep and depressing. As you know, I recently read Sula. Though I didn’t care for it, I did like The Bluest Eye when I read it in university.
I am of two minds when it comes to Toni Morrison. I think she’s brilliant, but I can only handle her depressing subject lines in small doses. I have yet to read this one (I’ve read Beloved and part of Song of Solomon); perhaps someday I will. Thanks for the encouraging review.
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