Skye Falling

Skye Falling is a unique story that had me laughing out loud several times even though it took on the heavier modern-day topics of gentrification, sexuality, identity, racism, and homophobia.

Synopsis: When she was twenty-six and broke, Skye didn’t think twice before selling her eggs and happily pocketing the cash. Now approaching forty, Skye still moves through life entirely—and unrepentantly—on her own terms, living out of a suitcase and avoiding all manner of serious relationships. Maybe her junior high classmates weren’t wrong when they voted her “Most Likely to Be Single” instead of “Most Ride-or-Die Homie,” but at least she’s always been free to do as she pleases.

Then a twelve-year-old girl tracks Skye down during one of her brief visits to her hometown of Philadelphia and informs Skye that she’s “her egg.” Skye’s life is thrown into sharp relief and she decides that it might be time to actually try to have a meaningful relationship with another human being. Spoiler alert: It’s not easy.

Things get even more complicated when Skye realizes that the woman she tried and failed to pick up the other day is the girl’s aunt, and now it’s awkward. All the while, her brother is trying to get in touch, her mother is being bewilderingly kind, and the West Philly pool halls and hoagie shops of her youth have been replaced by hipster cafés.

What appealed to you the most in this story?

I really appreciated the themes, messages, and character development within this modern story. Skye Falling centers on Skye, a queer Black woman in her late 30s. In particular, I appreciated how Mia McKenzie characterized Skye as someone with a lot of heart and humor as well as issues related to attachment and intimacy given the traumatic elements of her childhood.

What is Skye’s character like.

McKenzie did not create a cliched character that is “saved” by others. Skye is a messy character, and she acknowledges where she has self-destructive issues in her life, but underneath the witty veneer, she yearns to change, even if she gets it wrong at times. Some readers may find her unlikable, but she's one of the few unlikable characters that charms you with her scorching wit and charm.

How was the pace?

This story about life, found family, and friendship held a steady pace

Do you recommend this book?

Mia McKenzie, brilliantly reinventing queer family and friendship. I truly recommend this book.

Thank you, Random House, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest opinion.