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Reviewed by David Jaggart for Readers' Favorite
Goodbye, Sweetberry Park by Josh Green revolves around Archibald Wesley Johnson (nicknamed God), a multiracial Atlanta journalist who acquires a neglected house from his deceased, racist white grandfather. God procures his charming nickname courtesy of his long white hair, lengthy beard, and larger-than-life personality. Restoring the old house will take a lot of work, but God is up for the challenge. It's a nice change of pace from his previous drug-bingeing and grief-induced lifestyle after losing the two most important people in his life. God encounters several formidable challenges along the way. Namely, a wealthy millionaire who plans to reform his community and a crazed zoo keeper who unleashes deadly snakes in the neighborhood. Can God garner the help of a solitary retired blues singer and other associates to help save their beloved Sweetberry Park?
Goodbye, Sweetberry Park aptly provides an engrossing historical overview of an Atlanta neighborhood torn between its illustrious past and undetermined future. It's an intriguing tale about urbanization that prolifically explores themes of loss, community spirit, self-identity, and gentrification. Josh Green is a master at highlighting the complexities of community relations and the actual effects of 'advancement' on an urban neighborhood. He does an astute job of exploring the social, racial, and class concerns that previous generations faced while also examining these issues in a modern setting. Readers will gain access to an authentic representation of urban development through the eyes and experiences of characters grappling with these challenges. Through it all, I admire how the protagonist, God, was able to see past his pain and connect with the struggles of others. This novel offers an incredible emotional journey. If you enjoy reading thought-provoking stories filled with humor, satire, and nuanced characters, grab a copy of this book today.
