55 pages • 1 hour read
Toni MorrisonTar Baby
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1981A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Tar Baby by Toni Morrison explores the complicated romance between Jadine Childs, a model, and Son, a fugitive, as they navigate the challenges of identity, love, and societal expectations across varying settings such as the Caribbean, the American South, and New York City. The narrative delves into themes of romantic obligation and betrayal as well as the intersection of social class and race, offering a rich, character-driven story. The book contains scenes of domestic violence and assault, child abuse, and instances of racism and the use of slurs.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Toni Morrison's novel Tar Baby is a complex exploration of identity, race, and class. Critics praise Morrison's lyrical prose and compelling character development, illustrating deep societal conflicts. However, some find the narrative's pacing uneven. Overall, the book's rich thematic content and vivid storytelling make it a compelling read.
Who Should Read Tar Baby?
Readers who appreciate Tar Baby by Toni Morrison are likely enthusiasts of rich, complex narratives exploring themes of race, identity, and class. Comparable to fans of Beloved by Morrison herself or The Color Purple by Alice Walker, they seek profound literary fiction that delves into African American experiences and intricate character development.