In Toni Morrison’s third novel, Song of Solomon, she introduces us to the Dead family. It is a family living in the same city yet divided by time and misunderstanding. On one side is Macon Dead II, on the other is his sister Pilate Dead, and standing in the middle is Macon “Milkman” Dead III, the protagonist of this family saga. Growing up, Milkman is taught that his father’s way of life is the “right” way and his aunt’s way of life is “wrong.” As Milkman grows from a boy into a man, he is challenged to examine his upbringing and find the life that is best for him. In this course, we will join Milkman on his journey of self-discovery that begins in Michigan and leads him to Virginia. We will meet the members of the Dead family, explore the ties that bind them, and examine what Morrison is telling us about the hopes and dreams of women and men and how they shape a family.