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Join MJ as he talks about Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor

#amreading #middlegrade #bookreview #Book #Fantasy #MJXMG #FOTRESSFICTION

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My Thoughts on Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

Exploring Racism, Resilience, and Family in “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry”

As rewritten from a Transcript by ClaudeAI

Hey everyone, MJ here with another deep dive into a foundational work of literature. Today, I’m discussing Mildred D. Taylor’s 1976 novel “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry,” which won the Newbery Medal in 1977 and is the first book in her Logan Family Saga.

The story, set in 1930s Mississippi, follows the Logans, a strong black family who own their own land, unlike most of their peers. Through the eyes of 9-year-old Cassie, we witness the realities of racism and discrimination in the Jim Crow era South.

Despite my initial skepticism about certain anecdotes feeling inauthentic (like Cassie’s younger brother Little Man’s reaction to his schoolbook), I quickly realized that Taylor’s portrayal rang true. The book doesn’t sugarcoat the harsh realities faced by black families, from the lack of new school materials to violent attacks and burnings.

What struck me most was the dignity and resilience of the Logan family in the face of adversity. While not all the black characters are presented as perfect (TJ Avery’s descent into crime is a prime example), the Logans exhibit strong family values and cohesion that help them weather the storms of racism.

I was particularly moved by the contrast between characters like TJ, broken by the discrimination he faced, and Cassie’s grandfather, born into slavery yet able to build a strong, loving family. It’s a testament to the human spirit that even those who suffered the worst injustices could rise above and create something beautiful.

Overall, “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry” is a must-read for its unflinching look at a dark chapter in American history and its inspiring message about the power of family and perseverance. I firmly believe it belongs in the halls of Fortress Fiction.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this powerful novel. Have you read any of the other books in Taylor’s Logan Family Saga? Let me know in the comments!

Until next time, keep reading and growing.

MJ signing off. This has been a Story Over Everything production.