In 'The Twelve Tribes of Hattie,' Ayana Mathis weaves the poignant story of Hattie Shepherd, an African American matriarch in early 20th century America. As she navigates the trials of motherhood amid the backdrop of the Great Migration, her struggles echo through her twelve children, each representing a unique path and destiny. The narrative unfolds across decades, exploring themes of resilience, love, and the unbreakable bonds of family. With each chapter, readers discover the rich tapestry of Hattie's life and the lingering effects of her choices. Can the legacy of one woman transcend her trials and shape the future of her children?
By Ayana Mathis
Published: 2012
""We are shaped by the choices we make, and the weight of those choices can carry across generations, echoing in the lives we touch and the legacies we leave behind.""
Traces the story of Great Migration-era mother Hattie Shepherd, who in spite of poverty and a dysfunctional husband uses love and Southern remedies to raise nine children and prepare them for the realities of a harsh world. A first novel.
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“"We are shaped by the choices we make, and the weight of those choices can carry across generations, echoing in the lives we touch and the legacies we leave behind."”
The Twelve Tribes of Hattie
By Ayana Mathis
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Ayana Mathis is an acclaimed American author known for her evocative storytelling and deep exploration of the African American experience. She gained significant recognition for her debut novel, "The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley," which weaves a rich tapestry of themes including family, resilience, and the complexities of identity. Mathis' writing is often characterized by its lyrical prose and keen insights into the human condition. She has also contributed essays and short stories to various publications, establishing herself as a powerful voice in contemporary literature. With an MFA from the Iowa Writers' Workshop, Mathis continues to captivate readers with her thought-provoking narratives and compelling characters.
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