I read novels and autobiographies all the time. Those are my 2 favorite genres. Recently, I have been reading some non fiction too - when it comes recommended.
In February, I read Caste: The Origins of our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson and Just As I Am: A Memoir by Cecily Tyson. I did not read these because February was Black History Month. I had started reading Caste back in December with 2 friends but I was not able to get through it at that time. It is full of so much history and difficult history, I put off reading it until I was able to pick it up and finish it in early February. I read Ms. Tyson's autobiography the day it came out and she passed away the day after. I did not read her book because it was February and Black History Month. I read her autobiography because I love autobiographies and I loved her - her grace, her dignity, her poise, her wisdom.
I feel that it is impossible for me to explain my feelings about either of these books. The stories that Ms. Tyson tells about her early life are heart breaking and are so similar to the experience of so many black women in this country. She manages to rise above our society's weight and carry herself with such care and grace.
The gravity of our society's weight on black people and people of color is clearly laid out in Caste. Whether you think you are well-read on the subject of US History or not, this book will give you the deepest dive into the underlying issues and how they have permeated everything we all know to be America. The challenge is where do we go from here. As a white woman with ancestors who owned slaves in Virginia, I am torn as to my abilty to make a difference. But I will heed Ms. Wilkerson's advice and educate myself and others in love.
I strong recommend you both both of these books on your reading list.
If you are not a reader, I encourage you to listen to Oprah's podcast with Ms. Wilkerson on Apple Podcasts.
Comments