Sometimes when we reach a certain place in life we get comfortable AND complacent. Mel and Builder had both gotten too comfortable - Mel in her corporate job (and all the goodies it afforded) and Builder in his self denial and deception. I enjoyed watching the characters in this novel grow through life's trials and tragedies. Isn't that the way all of us do it?! I like the author's use of the name Builder for Mel's husband. Not only was he a "builder" of physical things, but he also helped build both their characters. The rape scene was a little difficult and I was disappointed that her friend Celeste had no redeeming qualities. Oh well, some people never learn. I thoroughly enjoyed the conversational style of this book and the full devlopment of the characters. It was nice to see a middle-class African-American family that triumphed over adversities in a realistic manner. I look forward to Ms. Smith's next work.

FLIGHT OF THE BLACKBIRD is the story of the downward spiral of a woman, Mel, and her family when she loses her job. This book questions living above one's means, and not saving and putting away for lean times. It addresses decisions made while under financial duress and how they affect family members. Finally, FLIGHT OF THE BLACKBIRD looks at the impact of having less on family pride, values and images. Even though this book presented a very real scenario and I'm glad I read it, it was depressing. One bad situation kept happening after another. I put myself in the lead character's position and thought that there were many pitfalls which could have been avoided. One last note, I finished reading this book with a resolution to take better control of my finances.

FLIGHT OF THE BLACKBIRD" is a novel about strength, perseverence, and love, and how everything that was once lost can be found again. I thought that there was nothing left for this family, and then another tragedy brought about newfound priorities and stronger family ties. The best part of this book was that it was so real. Downsizing is a part of the corporate structure, and people cope in different ways. This family, to me, took it too lightly, and the walls fell it-HARD! It was a very powerful novel and I enjoyed it throughly.