When We Were Birds: A Novel by Ayanna Lloyd Banwo

This book is part of our Spring Reading Challenge. Read more here.

Magical realism that works! Steeped in Trinidadian myth, this is a rich and alluring love story. The tale of Yejide, who is reluctant to inherit her destined role of balancer of life and death. The tale of Darwin, working in a cemetery, living outside the teachings of his Rastafari faith. Written in rhythmic colloquial island language, with threads of romance, crime, and mythology. This debut novel created a magical world that delighted and wowed me. —Trey