Memorial: An Honest and Heartfelt Novel Review by Bryan Washington
Memorial: A Novel by Bryan Washington is an intimate and deeply moving story of a young man struggling to find his place in the world. The book follows Mike, a mixed-race kid from Houston, as he navigates the complexities of family, identity and race. Through vivid characters and powerful prose, Washington paints a portrait of a community that is both unique and universal.
The novel opens with Mike trying to come to terms with the recent death of his father. As he deals with his grief, he must also grapple with his relationship with his mother, sister and extended family. He struggles to understand his own identity in a world where he doesn — a “biracial” kid — doesn’t quite fit in anywhere.
Washington’s writing is both beautiful and heartbreaking as he explores themes of love, loss and belonging. With each character, readers explore different facets of the human experience — from heartache and loneliness to joy and hope. The novel offers an honest look at what it means to be part of an interracial family in today’s America.
Overall, Memorial: A Novel by Bryan Washington is an emotionally powerful story about identity, family and belonging. It offers a rare glimpse into the lives of people who are often ignored or misunderstood in our society. By weaving together personal stories with larger questions about race and belonging, Washington has crafted an unforgettable reading experience.