This month we’ll be reading Toni Morrison’s first novel, The Bluest Eye, a book heralded for its richness of language and boldness of vision.

Set in the author’s girlhood hometown of Lorain, Ohio, it tells the story of black, eleven-year-old Pecola Breedlove. Mocked by other children for the dark skin, curly hair, and brown eyes that set her apart, she prays for her eyes to turn blue so that she will be as beautiful and beloved as all the blond, blue-eyed children in America. Yet, in painful, devastating ways, Pecola’s life does not change.

The Buest Eye is vivid evocation of the fear and loneliness at the heart of a child’s yearning, and the tragedy of its fulfillment. It is one of Tony Morrisons’s most powerful, unforgettable novels and a significant work of American fiction.

Though initially planned to be hosted at a member’s home, we will plan to meet over Zoom video call. We’ll make sure all registrants have the link beforehand.

We can’t wait to see your faces there!

PS: Sharing a selfie with your book or a snap of the Zoom call? Don’t forget to tag us @upperleftladies and use #ULLbookclub so we can share the love!