Incredible journey. You feel you've lived centuries through the reach of the firewoman's family's lives. The touch of mysticism is earned by how grounded the lives in these pages are otherwise. They are not neat. They do harm and are harmed, yet Gyasi beautifully, relentlessly insists that this harm does not have to get the final say. She writes a strong case for the restorative power of willpower, family, and community.

Also fascinating glimpse into some Akan cultures for the unfamiliar.