The Alchemy of Noise by Lorraine Devon Wilkes

The Alchemy of Noise

Lorraine Devon Wilkes

This is a Romeo and Juliet story set in modern Chicago. He is black and she is white. The Chicago Police Department are a sort of Richard III figure who has strayed in from another play. Sidonie and Mike's story is heart-warming - you so want them to succeed. A delight to read, but also deeply disturbing – leaving no doubt about the ingrained racism of this city.

Extract
Karen ranted all the way back to the city. If Sidonie had been less tired, she might have participated, but as it was, she was happy to cede the soapbox to her sister, who was riled and in rare form. It wasn't until Willis Tower came into distant view that Karen finally depleted herself, concluding the ride in silence.
Parallels
  • Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
  • To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • Lena and Boesman by Athol Fugard