Fruit of the Lemon - Andrea Levy

After absolutely loving 'The Long Song' (which was also adapted brilliantly for the BBC), I knew I had to read another Andrea Levy. 'Fruit of the Lemon' is an enjoyable and thought-provoking book, which explores the theme of identity through the central character of Faith. Faith knows very little about her Jamaican heritage and has never questioned her parents about their lives before moving to England - but when they announce suddenly that they are moving back 'home' to Jamaica, Faith begins to wonder what is drawing them back, and starts to notice the everyday racism which surrounds her. 

Faith's friends are predominantly white, she lives in a shared student flat with white housemates, and she works in the costume department of the BBC as the only black employee. Before now, it has never occurred to her that racism surrounds her, however covert it may appear. When she begins to isolate herself from her friends and work colleagues in a complete identity crisis, her parents suggest that she visit her home of Jamaica and discover who she really is. They are met with skepticism, but she reluctantly agrees.

Levy's writing is accessible, and her character portrayal is vibrant and witty. The book is really quite funny whilst also dealing with some pretty dark themes. I think it took me a little longer to get into this book because the first half documents Faith's life in England, which at times feels a little monotonous and slow, before speeding off into the colourful and exciting land of Jamaica in the second half - so it definitely got better. Levy weaves Faith's extensive family tree, extending from Jamaica, to Cuba, Panama and Scotland, all told through the perspectives of her various Jamaican relatives. This aspect of the novel was cleverly done as you get to experience the story told in different voices, some of which (particularly Aunt Coral's) are really hilarious.

Overall, the book didn't wow me - but I thought it was enjoyable nonetheless. The author's writing really paints a portrait and I love that I was able to vividly imagine Jamaica in my head despite never having been there. I'm excited to read 'Small Island' next, which I believe is Levy's most critically acclaimed novel.