The Second Life of Samuel Tyne

By: Esi Edugyan

Narrated by: Khadijah Roberts-Abdullah

From the internationally bestselling author of Washington Black, winner of the 2018 Scotiabank Giller Prize and finalist for the Man Booker Prize, this debut novel, haunting and atmospheric, portrays the heartbreak, hardship and moments of surprising grace in the life of a man struggling to realize his destiny.

Once a young Ghanaian emigrant of outstanding promise, Samuel Tyne is languishing as a low-level civil servant in Calgary. When he unexpectedly inherits a mansion in what was formerly an all-black town, he seems to have been offered that fabled second chance, even if his wife and twin daughters are profoundly—and strangely—set against it. But as his desire for success intensifies, Samuel Tyne finds his life disintegrating around him.

Incredible

an unforgettable story. I still feel as though the characters are alive. I miss Samuei.

Great sweep of characters

Esi Edugyan’s great talent is evident here with memorable characters and individual scenes so carefully “painted” that I wlll never forget them.

The author’s ability to create tension and drive the reader forward almost edges up to the genre of horror.

Roberts-Abdullah’s voice was perfect, steady as the narrator and in a higher register just scary enough as the twins. this is an ideal audible book.

This book deserves rereading. I’m not ready to let go of the characters and would love a spinoff novel told by Amma, the girl who visits and adds stability to members of the family as it teeters on a precipice.

If you like this book, you must read Washington Black.