Go Tell it on the Mountain

Go Tell It on the Mountain is a brilliant novel about religious hypocrisy, new life and self-destruction that all takes place in one family, on one day in Harlem City. This jaw-dropping read is so good, you'll never want to finish it - and then you dread the ending...but stay hopeful, just like the main character, John. 

Characters:

My favourite character here is Roy - his accident seems to be the beginning of all the madness. Roy is a three dimensional character living in a two dimensional world; as a result of this - John is confused over who he is as all of this madness takes place on his birthday.

Themes:

The most important theme in this book is probably identity. Identity plays the role in John's self-discovery that no other theme can play - it plays the role of self-improvement and self-destruction; with the vast ability to do both where he is concerned. Gabriel also seeks the same sense; but is too afraid to show it in front of The Lord. 

Storyline:

This book has an amazing storyline as the entirety of it is set on John's birthday and yet, it tells his complete family background through prose and song and prayer and person. John's idea of self-discovery is enlarged as we learn that to know who John is - we must know about those around him and how this has constructed his identity. Finding parallels between their personas and his is the most important thing we must do for ourselves whilst we read. 

Verdict:

I give this book 8/9

2/3 for characters: The only reason for this is because I don't like Gabriel - nor is he sympathetic when we read his backstory. I also do not feel much for Florence, but I do (however) like Roy, John and Elisha very much. 

100% for themes: The themes in this book are so very well constructed that it's hard not to look at this book as art and not just a piece of literary fiction.

100% for storyline: I say "fiction" - but the storyline makes it hard to believe that this book is a work of fiction. It might as well be real because it would have the same emotional effect on us. 

This is the copy I have. Do you want the book too?