Good Dirt: A Novel By Charmaine Wilkerson Book Review
Have you ever wondered how a single object could carry the weight of generations, holding secrets, pain, hope, and history all at once? That’s exactly the kind of story Charmaine Wilkerson tells in her novel Good Dirt.
Good Dirt is a multigenerational family saga mixed with historical fiction, mystery, and a deep look into the Black American experience. At its center is Ebony “Ebby” Freeman, who, as a child, witnesses her brother’s tragic murder during a botched home invasion that also destroys a centuries-old family heirloom, a clay jar called “Old Mo.” Fast forward nearly two decades, and Ebby’s life is unraveling again when her fiancé leaves her at the altar, throwing her into the unwanted spotlight she’s tried to avoid. Looking for peace, she retreats to the French countryside, where past and present collide as she faces grief, family secrets, and the lasting legacy tied to that jar made by enslaved ancestors.
What makes Good Dirt stand out is how Wilkerson skillfully brings together these timelines and multiple voices, from enslaved potters in the 1800s to modern family struggles, without losing emotional depth or clarity. Her writing is lyrical but vivid, drawing you into each character’s journey with empathy and nuance. The jar itself isn’t just pottery; it’s a symbol of resilience, endurance, and the inheritance of both trauma and hope.
Readers have been pretty divided on this one. Many love the richly layered storytelling, the historical details, especially about pottery and enslaved artisans, and the emotional honesty of the characters, especially Ebby, who comes across as brave and relatable. Fans of Wilkerson’s earlier book, Black Cake, have praised Good Dirt as just as compelling. But some readers found the shifting perspectives and timelines a bit overwhelming or felt the secrets didn’t have as strong a payoff as they hoped. Others said some character arcs seemed less necessary or that the mystery parts dragged on.
From my perspective, Good Dirt is great for readers who enjoy thoughtful historical fiction mixed with family dramas that don’t shy away from tough themes like grief, race, and resilience. If you like stories that take you on a deep emotional journey with well-developed characters and don’t mind paying close attention to timelines and viewpoints, this book will probably grab you. But if you prefer straightforward stories or don’t like a lot of shifting perspectives, it might feel a little heavy or scattered.
Overall, Good Dirt is a moving look at how our ancestors’ stories shape who we are today, and how sometimes, healing means facing the past no matter how complicated it is. If that sounds like your kind of story, definitely give it a try. And if you’ve already read it, I’d love to hear what you thought!