(Paperback - REV)
Sassafrass, Cypress and Indigo is the story of three "colored girls," three sisters and their mama from Charleston, South Carolina: Sassafrass, the oldest, a poet and a weaver like her mother, gone north to college, living with other artists in Los Angeles and trying to weave a life out of her work, her man, her memories and dreams; Cypress, the dancer,who leaves home to find new ways of moving and easing the contractions of her soul; Indigo, the youngest, still a child of Charleston—"too much of the south in her"—who lives in poetry, can talk to her dolls, and has a great gift of seeing the obvious magic of the world.
The story of three sisters making their way in an often hostile world, this is Shange's most beloved novel. "Possessed of poetry, motion and light . . . Shange's tale is poignant, surprising, and deep as she looks at the different worlds of women and their special places therein."--Publishers Weekly.
More Reviews and RecommendationsNtozake Shange is a renowned playwright, poet, and novelist. Her novels include Betsey Brown and Liliane, both of which are available from Picador. She lives in Philadelphia with her family.
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February 10, 2003: These stories held my heart as I represent one of the majority of "ethnic" people living in New York (or America for that matter!) I loved the way she weaves the stories together and represents the broad experiences of womyn of color. Her poetry is direct and it was not difficult to enter into the character's lives. I recommend this book to anyone interested in expanding their 'literary palette'.
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January 28, 2000: This book is one of my favorites. It is poetic and dreamy. This book has touched my soul. It made me feel as if I wasn't alone in the world. Ms. Shange has a way with words that will make you loose yourself. She makes you want to become a part of her book. You can feel what the characters feel. She did a wonderful job. I highly recommend this piece of work.