A Woman's Worth: A Novel (Strivers Row)
by Tracy Price-Thompson

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Book Reviews of A Woman's Worth: A Novel (Strivers Row)

Book Review: Captivating, Brilliant
Summary: 5 Stars

Prostitution and female circumcision are juxtaposed in a plot that on the most basic level can be summarized as a love story. The book opens with a series of colorful, yet emotional scenes that introduce Bishop "Chicken" Johnson. At the story's opening, Bishop is a young boy living with his parents "Slim Willie" and "Dimples" in the whorehouse that they run in Birdtown, Alabama. Growing up in a whorehouse meant that Bishop was exposed to a lot more than the average child his age, but the familial relationships he shared with the prostitutes working out of his home, his father's protectiveness of ALL the women in his house, and his parent's special relationship taught him important lessons that would carry him throughout his life.

In Kenya, Abeni is the only daughter of a powerful Kenyan man. As part of their tribal tradition she is forced to undergo a female circumcision at a young age. The ritual not only leaves her physically mutilated, but also emotionally scarred. As she grows up, Abeni must endure many painful experiences including sexual abuse, and ultimately social isolation. But her life is forever changed when she meets Bishop, who ends up in Kenya working with the Peace Corps. Although the two have completely different backgrounds they both carry the luggage of a painful past. They marry and it seems that their love for one another helps both of them heal; that is until their own daughter has reached the age at which she should be circumcised. It is at this point that Bishop and Abeni must decide for themselves what a woman's worth is and make some difficult decisions.

A WOMAN'S WORTH is not meant to be a quick read; instead it should be savored and absorbed. It is like comparing an extra value meal to a classy steak dinner, both can ease the hunger pangs but in completely different ways. Tracy's characters don't jump off the page, they sneak into your heart and the result is an unforgettable read. This book will make you question what it means to be a man and what it means to be a woman. Themes of sexuality, race, gender and love are presented in a way that is not preachy but force you to re-examine your own values. Pay close attention because every word and every sub-plot fits together to form an intricate puzzle which the author puts together piece by piece until you reach the book's dramatic conclusion. I was thoroughly impressed by her attention to even the slightest details regarding both characters and plot. Before reading this book, prepare yourself for the stirring and emotional ride that is sure to follow.

Reviewed by Stacey Seay
of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

Summary of A Woman's Worth: A Novel (Strivers Row)

United States Books

• Subjects > Literature & Fiction > United States
• Romance > Multicultural