Gloria Naylor was a celebrated African-American novelist whose works often delved into the deeply ingrained issues within the Black community. Her literary style was characterized by a profound insight into character psychology and a fluid narrative approach. Through her novels and essays, she explored themes of identity, community, and the enduring impacts of racism and class distinctions. Her writing offers readers a challenging yet rewarding perspective on the complexities of the human experience.
Set in a diner where the food isn't very good and the ambience veers between heaven and hell, this bestselling novel from the author of Mama Day and The Women of Brewster Place is a feast for the senses and the spirit. "A virtuoso orchestration of survival, suffering, courage and humor."--New York Times Book Review.
The book features a compelling introduction by Robert Jones, Jr., setting the stage for a profound exploration of themes such as identity, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships. It delves into the intricacies of personal and cultural narratives, offering readers a rich tapestry of experiences that challenge societal norms. Through vivid storytelling and insightful reflections, the work invites contemplation on the intersections of race, history, and self-discovery, making it a significant contribution to contemporary literature.
The National Book Award-winning novel—and contemporary classic—that launched the brilliant career of Gloria Naylor, now with a foreword by Tayari Jones “[A] shrewd and lyrical portrayal of many of the realities of black life . . . Naylor bravely risks sentimentality and melodrama to write her compassion and outrage large, and she pulls it off triumphantly.” —The New York Times Book Review “Brims with inventiveness—and relevance.” —NPR's Fresh Air In her heralded first novel, Gloria Naylor weaves together the stories of seven women living in Brewster Place, a bleak-inner city sanctuary, creating a powerful, moving portrait of the strengths, struggles, and hopes of black women in America. Vulnerable and resilient, openhanded and openhearted, these women forge their lives in a place that in turn threatens and protects—a common prison and a shared home. Naylor renders both loving and painful human experiences with simple eloquence and uncommon intuition in this touching and unforgettable read.
Linden Hills is an exclusive private residential estate in America. Intended as a symbol of black equality, it is in fact an infernal place, and the layers of hypocrisy and self-destruction which are its foundation become exposed. The author's other novels include "The Women of Brewster Place".