September’s Title Pick for Adults: Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi was suggested by several Reader Leaders for our Reader Bookshelf on the theme of ‘The Home We Carry’.

The Reader’s Volunteer Experience Co-Ordinator, Lisa, explained why she thought it was a good choice for our Bookshelf and why it’s particularly suited to be read in Shared Reading groups:

"This a novel about keeping in touch with home, and our roots and heritage, through difficult circumstances. It tells the stories of several characters linked through generations by family connections, so any of its chapters would work well as stand-alone pieces in a group, as well as reading the whole book."

Emma, Shared Reading Practice Lead, read Homegoing because it was this year’s Bookshelf and found it was ‘utterly superb’: ‘I was moved by all the stories told but two which stand out are those of Sonny and his son Marcus. Sonny protests against segregation but addiction makes life precarious. Marcus bravely unearths his painful heritage but finds a visceral freedom which feels like rebirth.’

Several extracts from the novel have been included the packs of selected prose and poetry shared to all Reader Leaders via our community website each month. A Reader Leader in North London found an extract from Homegoing led to ‘constant conversation’ among the group, adding, ‘everyone was engaged and alert to the story’.  One group in a library in the North West was so intrigued by the extract they read, they expressed interest in exploring the whole book together – ‘they have never wanted to read a full novel before!’ said their Reader Leader. It is always wonderful to see The Bookshelf leading to new discoveries for our Shared Reading group members!

By Frances Macmillan, Literature Engagement Lead