Her narration was smooth and distraction-free, allowing me to get lost in Morrison's story instead of Coleman's reading. The ways in which she dramatizes various characters' voices are consistent and appropriate-neither boringly bland nor over-the-top. I am moderately hearing-impaired, yet had very little trouble understanding her. Desiree Coleman's narration of this book is excellent. The ensuing romance drives most of the remainder of the novel and forms the backdrop for Morrison's provocative questions regarding race, gender, love, and power. Jadine, though initially repulsed by the filthy, scruffy intruder, soon begins a clandestine sexual relationship with him. To begin with, the novel was Morrison's first novel published in the present moment - the late 1970s - and it is the first of Morrison's novel to look at the Black-white divide and the deep prevalence of anti-Black racism among both the white establishment and even within some. This man, known as “Son,” has been squatting in the house for several days, yet Valerian inexplicably invites him to stay at the house as an honored guest. Tar Baby (1981) marks a significant departure for Toni Morrison. The household is thrown into chaos when Margaret discovers a strange black man hiding in her closet. Sydney and Ondine have long acted as guardians for their orphaned mixed-race niece, Jadine Childs, now 25 years old, a college graduate, and a successful international fashion model. Valerian Street, a rich white retiree, lives on a tiny island in the Caribbean with his troubled younger wife, Margaret, as well as two faithful old servants, Sydney and Ondine-both black.

Now that I've listened to *Tar Baby*, though, it's quickly replaced *The Bluest Eye* as my favorite Morrison text! *Tar Baby* is a rich, complex love story that explores many questions, particularly those of race solidarity, heritage, and trauma. I've enjoyed Morrison's *Beloved* and *The Bluest Eye* for years, but hadn't heard of *Tar Baby* until recently. So good that I'm writing my first Audible review!

Tar Baby by Toni Morrison