46 pages 1 hour read

Charles M. Blow

Fire Shut Up in My Bones

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2014

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Fire Shut Up in My Bones by Charles M. Blow recounts his journey from his troubled childhood in rural Louisiana, marked by sexual abuse and family instability, to his eventual success as a journalist. The memoir details his struggle with identity and social acceptance, highlighting his resilience and career achievements. The narrative addresses themes of trauma, resilience, and self-acceptance.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Fire Shut Up in My Bones by Charles M. Blow is lauded for its raw and powerful memoir of overcoming personal adversity. Critics praise Blow's lyrical prose and emotional depth. However, some note its heavy subject matter might not be for everyone. The memoir's introspective narrative and social commentary offer a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Fire Shut Up in My Bones?

Readers captivated by personal narratives and social commentary, similar to The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates, will appreciate Fire Shut Up in My Bones by Charles M. Blow. This memoir resonates with those interested in overcoming adversity, racial identity, and the complexities of masculinity.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

African American Literature

Biography

Topics

Race / Racism

LGBTQ

Themes

Identity: Race

Identity: Gender

Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance