Boy, Snow, Bird by Helen Oyeyemi

Description

“Boy, Snow, Bird” is a novel written by Helen Oyeyemi, published in 2014. The book is a reimagining of the Snow White fairy tale, set in 1950s and 1960s Massachusetts. Helen Oyeyemi is a British author known for her innovative and often complex narratives that blend elements of folklore, mythology, and contemporary fiction.

The novel is structured in three parts, each narrated by a different character. The central characters are Boy Novak, a young woman who leaves her troubled past behind and marries Arturo Whitman; Snow, Boy’s stepdaughter from Arturo’s previous marriage, who is described as remarkably fair-skinned; and Bird, Boy and Arturo’s daughter.

The story explores themes of race, identity, and family secrets. Boy, who is white, discovers that Arturo’s family has been passing as white while concealing their African American heritage for generations. The arrival of Snow, with her fair skin, brings to light the family’s complex relationship with race and the consequences of societal expectations and prejudices.

The novel delves into issues of beauty, societal norms, and the impact of family dynamics on individual identity. Oyeyemi uses the fairy tale framework to examine and subvert traditional notions of beauty and goodness, adding layers of complexity to the characters and their relationships.

“Boy, Snow, Bird” received positive reviews for its lyrical prose, imaginative storytelling, and thought-provoking exploration of race and identity. Oyeyemi’s unique narrative style and her ability to blend the fantastical with real-world issues contribute to the novel’s appeal. The book offers a fresh perspective on a classic fairy tale, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of societal expectations.