I found that reading The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates was a powerful and thought-provoking experience, though I initially was hesitant to finish the book. This book is a story of slavery told through a unique lens, one that avoids graphic depictions of violence or rape, while still confronting their devastating impact, particularly on the development of family and community. This book dove into the horrors of slavery, but also the unexpected issues associated with freedom. I appreciated the use of terms like “tasking,” “quality,” and “low,” which lent a fresh perspective to this historical narrative.
This entire post will contain spoilers, so stop now if you’d rather not know what happens in the book.
While I initially struggled with the dry writing style of The Water Dancer and then hesitated to continue due to the subject matter of slavery, the story grew on me. I am not interested in continuing to relive the brutality of that time period, particularly when it is told in a way to be sensational. I appreciate nuanced tellings that showcase the full lives and networks of enslaved people and their creativity.
I think the turning point for me, the time when I decided I’d finish this book out, was Hiram’s move to the house and being tutored. Once I found out that Hiram was just being groomed to be his brother’s keeper, I was as devastated as Hiram was. I hadn’t heard anything about this book before reading it, so I was under the impression that maybe he’ll get to become the heir since his brother is unfit for the part. Alas, I was incorrect. A layer that added to my experience of the novel was listening to Joe Morton’s narration of the audiobook.
One drawback for me was the portrayal of women in the story. I’m not sure if the book passes the Bechdel test, but it’s something I’ll explore diligently on a second read. I was struck by how much admiration Corrine received compared to Moses (Harriet Tubman). For some reason, I initially thought Corinne was black. Maybe it was my hope of the positive attributes she was bestowed being relayed to the women Hiram was close to. Tubman’s brilliance as a strategist who freed dozens of enslaved people deserved more attention, and her role felt underplayed in comparison.
The inclusion of magical elements, like Hiram’s power to transport enslaved people, added a compelling layer to the historical narrative. I loved the focus on community, connection, and the wisdom of nature. The idea that understanding and honoring each other’s stories is essential to progress resonated deeply with me. I also liked that once Hiram got the memories of his mother back, his power was completely unleashed.
Near the end of the book, I was so relieved that when Hiram went back Sophia and Thena were still alive. I thought the part when they parted angrily earlier, would be the end of Thena’s story as she would have died or been sold prior to Hiram getting a chance to reconcile with her. The fact that Sophia was pregnant when they were deciding to run and Hiram having to come to terms with this as well as the child she is raising, showed his maturity when he decided he would care of Caroline. This part was in contrast to the disgust Robert expressed when finding out Mary was pregnant.
Overall, The Water Dancer is a beautifully crafted story that blends history, fantasy, and humanity. It challenges us to remember, connect, and move forward together. Have you read it? I’d love to hear your thoughts about this book.
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