Makeda by Randall Robinson

Makeda tells the story of a special bond between Gray and his grandmother. Gray’s grandmother is named Mattie Gee Florida March, but she confides to her grandson that her real name is Makeda Gee Florida March. Though Makeda is blind, she fires up Gray’s imagination with stories she “sees” in her dreams. One of the stories features her as a daughter of a Dogon priest in 12th Century where she tells her grandson of the religious and astrological knowledge of the Dogon. These dreams spark a quest in Gray, who goes to lengths to corroborate her grandmother’s story visiting the Dogon tribe in Mali, West Africa.

The book, Makeda, deals with the subject of race, religion, love, and family. The author, Randall Robinson, takes us through the civil rights movement in America through the eyes of Gray. We feel his innermost thoughts, passion, and confusion about the world he lives in.

I was glad I did not put Makeda down after reading the first five chapters. The opening was tedious and self-indulgent. By Chapter Seven, Makeda kicked to life; the book began to take shape; words and expression flowed like smooth olive oil. A memorable read.

Publisher: Akashic Books
ISBN: 978-1-61775-022-9
Published Date: Thu 01st Dec 2011
Format: Trade Paperback