Paradise.

New York, NY Penguin Group: Plume Books, 1999. Paperback First Edition Thus; First Printing indicated. Very Near Fine in Wraps: shows only a slight tanning to the pages due to aging; else flawless. The binding is square and secure; the text is clean. Virtually 'As New'. NOT a Remainder, Book-Club, or Ex-Library. 8vo; 318pp. First Edition Thus [1999]; First Printing indicated. (Oprah's Book Club). Trade Paperback. Toni Morrison is one of the best authors living today, and has firmly placed herself as an author that will be read years down the road. Paradise is perhaps one of her best novels, and is one of my all time favorites (I have read it three times). It does pose a difficult read for those looking for a casual book, because it is a deep and complexly interwoven book meant to stir emotions and one's mind. I am amazed at the spotlight reviews who seem confused by her style of writing and could not become involved with the characters. Morrison uses a recursive approach, one that breathes new life into each chapter (as a new character is introduced Morrison takes the time to back track to explain that person's past before joining the character with the present time of the book; Morrison's Master's Thesis was on Faulkner, who used the recursive style heavily). Although this could create confusion if you aren't aware of it, I think it makes for an altogether complete and compelling story. The Convent itself and the women that reside within are compelling, and sad, stories ready to be told, and as they unfold with their interactions with Ruby it creates a book that is absolutely amazing. This book is not for those looking for a quick easy read, or something that goes from point A to point B with no stops in between. This book will test your mind and emotions as the tale unfolds through complex chapters, leaving you with a much more fulfilling book than one that does not make you think about what you are reading.