Book details
Sula
Description
The island of Sula is the whole world to Magnus Macduff. He loves every inch of it and knows all the animals and birds. Magnus is not like the other children on the island. Often, instead of going to school, he makes his way up the shore to visit Old Whiskers the seal, or up Heathery Hill to sit with Mr Skinnymalink the hermit in his cave.
Magnus is afraid that Mr Murray, the new teacher on the island, will spoil his fun. But Mr Murray is nervous too. He is an outsider. Life threatens to become difficult for both of them -- until Mr Murray discovers that Magnus has a wonderful gift for drawing, "seals, birds, dogs - so fresh and life-like that the creatures seem to be crawling across the arithmetic book."
Sula is the first of four books about life on this tiny west coast island and the adventures of Magnus Macduff.
Age
14-17
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
160 pages
Why to read
- Exploration of Complex Themes: 'Sula' delves into intricate themes such as friendship, identity, community, and the impact of societal norms on personal choices, offering readers a rich ground for reflection and discussion.
- Masterful Storytelling: Toni Morrison's narrative style is both poetic and powerful, providing an immersive reading experience that captures the emotional depth and complexity of the characters and their circumstances.
- Cultural and Historical Insight: The novel provides a window into the African American experience during the early 20th century, highlighting the challenges faced by black communities and the resilience they demonstrated in the face of adversity.
- Character Development: 'Sula' features strong, multifaceted female characters, particularly the friendship between Sula and Nel, which is central to the story. Their relationship and individual growth offer insights into human nature and the choices that define us.