In 'The Turner House,' Angela Flournoy weaves a poignant tale set in Detroit, following the Turner family as they grapple with the complexities of home, heritage, and the American Dream. The narrative centers around the family’s matriarch, Viola, and her thirteen children, each dealing with their own struggles while facing the impending sale of their childhood home. As memories flood back, secrets are revealed, and ties are tested, the novel explores themes of loss, identity, and the meaning of family. Rich with cultural references and emotional depth, this story invites readers to reflect on their own connections to home. Will the Turners find a way to preserve their legacy amidst change, or will their familial bonds dissolve like the city surrounding them?
By Angela Flournoy
Published: 2016
""You don't realize how much a house can hold—memories, secrets, and the weight of family history. It becomes a part of who you are, and leaving it behind is like trying to leave a piece of your soul.""
A novel centered on the journey of the Turner family and its thirteen siblings, particularly the eldest and youngest, as they face the ghosts of their pasts--both an actual haint and the specter of addiction--the imminent loss of their mother, and the necessary abandonment of their family home in struggling Detroit
Angela Flournoy is a critically acclaimed author known for her insightful exploration of themes such as family, identity, and the complexities of urban life. Her debut novel, 'The Turner House,' was nominated for the National Book Award and received widespread praise for its rich character development and poignant narrative. Flournoy's writing is characterized by its lyrical prose and deep empathy for her characters, drawing readers into the intricacies of their lives. In addition to her novels, Flournoy has contributed essays and stories to prominent publications, solidifying her reputation as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
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“"You don't realize how much a house can hold—memories, secrets, and the weight of family history. It becomes a part of who you are, and leaving it behind is like trying to leave a piece of your soul."”
The Turner House
By Angela Flournoy
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