Service95 Recommends is the home of the books we love and reviews from our contributors. Cane by Jean Toomer, first published in 1923, is an innovative literary work that is part poetry, part fiction. Regarded as an American masterpiece, Cane creates striking glimpses into the lives of African Americans during the Jim Crow era.
What Jennifer Clement Says: In writing the short but intense love story between Jean-Michel Basquiat and Dr Suzanne Mallouk, I was looking for books that break into new forms. Through studying Cane, I decided to write the dual voice in Widow Basquiat – Suzanne’s voice is not based on an interview. No matter what book I’m working on, Cane is always present.
What They Say: “A breakthrough in prose and poetical writing. This book should be on all readers’ and writers’ desks and in their minds.” – Maya Angelou
Available on Bookshop.org, Waterstones, and Barnes & Noble
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