Day 3 of 28 – Black History Month – Their Eyes Were Watching God

By: Ebonye Gussine Wilkins

I’m sure some of you have read Zora Neale Hurston’s “Their Eyes Were Watching God” as a required reading in school. If not, you’re in for a treat. While it can be heavy at times, it addresses universal themes that really resonate.

The protagonist Janie Crawford is bounced around first from home to home and then from marriage to marriage due to an unstable childhood. During this time, she searches for her independence despite local gossip, men who have various agendas and societal pressures. Despite so many well-intending people trying to push her in the right direction, she seems to often end up in the wrong ones.

Love, independence, friendship, and humility are the cornerstones of this novel, and it is well worth the read if you happen to be rained-in or snowed-in this February. Even if you live in a warmer climate, take this read to the beach or park. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.