Review of Junebug
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Lisa P Cowling
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Review of Junebug
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Junebug" by Wilson Edward Reed.]
“Junebug” by Wilson Edward Reed, PhD, is a non-fictional story by the same author that traces the life of the author as Junebug, a young boy growing up in the segregated South, as he thrives amid family dysfunctionality, society, and racial discrimination. The story begins with Junebug eagerly awaiting his first bus ride to school, a small yet significant step toward education and hope in the oppressive Jim Crow system. Throughout the story, Junebug’s journey is marked by similar personal wins and profound losses, from the innocence of childhood mudpies to the devastating impact of his mother’s illness and the betrayal by his father. Dr. Edward Reed has successfully crafted Junebug’s personal growth with the broader social growth of the black community, showing vividly the struggle for equality.
The main character’s arc and development are particularly strong, as we follow his evolution from a naive child who mistakes a possum for a French raccoon into a determined young man, driven by both personal ambition and a deep sense of responsibility. Relationships are portrayed powerfully, especially the bond prevalent among black communities—extended families as well as Christian communities. Junebug’s development from a naive child to a self-aware young man navigating life’s challenges is very compelling and a job well done. In just a few pages, the author was able to capture unique transition points for the development of the boy, Junebug. There are also instances that portray the status of the segregated South Side and the difficulties that the blacks passed through—the man spitting on Junebug, his KFC boss who takes advantage of the poverty of his black workers, the homeowner who tricks him into eating cayenne pepper, and so on. These instances enhanced the impact of the book on readers. The author’s construction of deeply emotional topics, such as the loss of Junebug’s mother and the betrayal by his father, helped create a deeply touching and relatable story.
The only issue in "Junebug" could be the large gaps of time that were left out in the narrative. In some instances, it felt like a huge leap was taken in the story. Although the author may not have intended to touch on all aspects of his life, some of them would have been relevant to the story. For instance, towards the end of the book where Junebug visits his girlfriend, it would have been more relevant if she was introduced earlier in the book, as I was left with doubt as to her role in his life.
Despite this issue, “Junebug” remains a thought-provoking read with a deep emotional depth and a diligent blending of personal, social, and political themes. Dr. Reed has been able to convey the depth of racism through an account of his upbringing. This is both relatable and inspiring. I rate this book five out of five stars.
I recommend “Junebug” to readers who appreciate character-driven stories set against significant historical backdrops. This will be a great fit for those interested in themes of racial injustice, personal growth, and the quest for identity and belonging.
******
Junebug
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
“Junebug” by Wilson Edward Reed, PhD, is a non-fictional story by the same author that traces the life of the author as Junebug, a young boy growing up in the segregated South, as he thrives amid family dysfunctionality, society, and racial discrimination. The story begins with Junebug eagerly awaiting his first bus ride to school, a small yet significant step toward education and hope in the oppressive Jim Crow system. Throughout the story, Junebug’s journey is marked by similar personal wins and profound losses, from the innocence of childhood mudpies to the devastating impact of his mother’s illness and the betrayal by his father. Dr. Edward Reed has successfully crafted Junebug’s personal growth with the broader social growth of the black community, showing vividly the struggle for equality.
The main character’s arc and development are particularly strong, as we follow his evolution from a naive child who mistakes a possum for a French raccoon into a determined young man, driven by both personal ambition and a deep sense of responsibility. Relationships are portrayed powerfully, especially the bond prevalent among black communities—extended families as well as Christian communities. Junebug’s development from a naive child to a self-aware young man navigating life’s challenges is very compelling and a job well done. In just a few pages, the author was able to capture unique transition points for the development of the boy, Junebug. There are also instances that portray the status of the segregated South Side and the difficulties that the blacks passed through—the man spitting on Junebug, his KFC boss who takes advantage of the poverty of his black workers, the homeowner who tricks him into eating cayenne pepper, and so on. These instances enhanced the impact of the book on readers. The author’s construction of deeply emotional topics, such as the loss of Junebug’s mother and the betrayal by his father, helped create a deeply touching and relatable story.
The only issue in "Junebug" could be the large gaps of time that were left out in the narrative. In some instances, it felt like a huge leap was taken in the story. Although the author may not have intended to touch on all aspects of his life, some of them would have been relevant to the story. For instance, towards the end of the book where Junebug visits his girlfriend, it would have been more relevant if she was introduced earlier in the book, as I was left with doubt as to her role in his life.
Despite this issue, “Junebug” remains a thought-provoking read with a deep emotional depth and a diligent blending of personal, social, and political themes. Dr. Reed has been able to convey the depth of racism through an account of his upbringing. This is both relatable and inspiring. I rate this book five out of five stars.
I recommend “Junebug” to readers who appreciate character-driven stories set against significant historical backdrops. This will be a great fit for those interested in themes of racial injustice, personal growth, and the quest for identity and belonging.
******
Junebug
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Goanna Man by Natasha Power Dixon
