Kin by Tayari Jones

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Pages: 368 pages
Published: February 2026 

After reading An American Marriage in 2018 and absolutely loving it, I couldn't wait to dive into Tayari Jones' latest novel, Kin. It's a coming-of-age novel that follows two motherless daughters – Vernice (Niecy) and Annie – born and raised in 1950s and 60s Louisiana as "cradle friends" whose lives are shaped by the absence of their mothers as well as their strong bond as friends. Though they grow up side by side, the circumstances surrounding their mothers' absence place them on opposite sides of the tracks in the eyes of their community. As they reach adulthood, they take two vastly different paths: Niecy goes to Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia and Annie embarks on a risky journey to Tennessee in search of her mother. Through alternating perspectives, Jones explores sisterhood, maternal absence, identity, and the ties –and traumas– that shape who we become. Despite the miles between them, the girls' friendship and bond endures through it all. 

I hesitated to write this review because Jones is such a gifted and talented writer, I feel that my words could never do her work justice. However, I do review everything I read in this space, and I did enjoy this book; not as much as the previous work because it's a very different story. But I have always and will always appreciate a beautifully-constructed sentence, and this author is an absolute master of language that evokes emotion. Her prose is captivating and transportive in that she places you directly inside her characters' worlds, allowing you the feel their longing, their fear, their hope, and the complicated positions they occupy. And then, at the end of this novel, after Jones has taken you on this emotional journey, she just breaks your heart wide open. (No spoilers: You just have to read it!) 

I won't say anymore other than, please go get this book and read it today. And if you're someone who judges a book by its cover, this one is just as stunning on the outside as wonderfully written within. 

Recommendation: Writing is a craft, and I can appreciate when it's done well. Literary fiction is my jam, and Kin had all the elements of an engaging and immersive read. Though nearly 400 pages, it hardly felt like it at all. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.