Published in 1959, Brown Girl, Brownstones by Paule Marshall follows Selina Boyce's coming-of-age journey as the daughter of Barbadian immigrants in 1940s and 1950s Brooklyn. Through struggles with familial and community expectations, Selina grapples with her identity and aspirations, culminating in her decision to seek her own path beyond Brooklyn. The book explores themes of immigration and family conflict.

Brown Girl, Brownstones by Paule Marshall is lauded for its rich portrayal of a Barbadian-American family's life in Brooklyn. Critics praise its vivid characters and cultural authenticity. However, some find the narrative pacing uneven. Despite this, the novel is celebrated for exploring complex themes of identity and community.

Readers who relish Brown Girl, Brownstones by Paule Marshall will likely enjoy coming-of-age stories with rich cultural backdrops. If you appreciate works like The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros or The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, this tale of a young Barbadian girl in Brooklyn is a compelling read.

Contemplative / Emotional / Nostalgic / Challenging / Bittersweet

Paule Marshall

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Brown Girl, Brownstones Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Book 1: “A Long Day and a Long Night”

Book 1

Brown Girl, Brownstones Book 1 Summary & Analysis

Book 2: “Pastorale”

Book 2

Brown Girl, Brownstones Book 2 Summary & Analysis

Book 3: “War”

Book 3

Brown Girl, Brownstones Book 3 Summary & Analysis

Book 4: “Selina”

Book 4

Brown Girl, Brownstones Book 4 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Brown Girl, Brownstones Character Analysis

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Themes

Brown Girl, Brownstones Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Brown Girl, Brownstones Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Brown Girl, Brownstones Important Quotes

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Brown Girl, Brownstones

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