This was an amazing book. It told the story of Bessie Smith. She was a famous blues singer. Often called "The Empress of Blues". She started singing when she was very young. All her life all she ever knew was the blues. In this book blues is not just referred to as a genre of music. They use the blues to describe Smith's living condition as well. Growing up she didn't have much and the blues grew in her soul. I really can relate to this book. Most times bessie could only rely on herself, as the same with me. She was a strong woman and her story is very inspiring. Reading her story has helped me respect and understand "The Blues" better than i did before. ~Natasha O.