SKIN & BONES

Renée Watson turns her sharp introspection and heart to the story of Lena, a 40-year-old Black woman who is on the threshold of a dream wedding and a successful career. Narrator Zenzi Williams provides a steady, assured internal voice for Lena. Lena's aspirations for body acceptance are at war with her struggle to be herself; this conflict is manifested in devastating episodes with her young daughter. Deft intonations sketch the characters and their emotions as Williams captures the rhythms of the lyrical passages throughout the narrative. Keen insights on racism in beauty standards, stressful work environments, and the evolution of Portland, Oregon, are woven into this deeply intimate story about personal growth. S.T.C. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2024]