Set against the backdrop of 1953 Massachusetts, the narrative explores themes of beauty, race, and family secrets through Boy Novak's journey. Seeking a new life, she marries a widower and becomes stepmother to Snow, only to confront her own identity when her dark-skinned daughter, Bird, reveals the family's hidden racial dynamics. This inventive retelling of the Snow White fairy tale delves into the complexities of vanity and societal perceptions, showcasing Helen Oyeyemi's unique storytelling and profound insights into identity and self-worth.
Set against the backdrop of 1953 Massachusetts, the narrative explores themes of beauty, race, and family secrets through Boy Novak's journey. Seeking a new life, she marries a widower and becomes stepmother to Snow, only to confront her own identity when her dark-skinned daughter, Bird, reveals the family's hidden racial dynamics. This inventive retelling of the Snow White fairy tale delves into the complexities of vanity and societal perceptions, showcasing Helen Oyeyemi's unique storytelling and profound insights into identity and self-worth.
