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The Twelve Tribes of Hattie
256 pages, 2012
fiction
1382 booksIt is 1923, and fifteen-year-old Hattie Shepherd has grown up in Georgia. She lives with her family on a farm and is looking forward to going to high school. However, she soon learns that life will not be easy for her; her father expects her to marry a man named Robert Taylor who works on their farm and is more than twice her age. Robert's reputation for cruelty is well known in the community, and when Hattie marries him she realizes just how bad he can be. Soon after the wedding, Hattie gives birth to twins whom Robert abuses and neglects; both die from malnutrition when they are very young. Hattie gives birth to nine more children whom she raises alone after Robert leaves the family home one day without explanation. Although she works hard to bring up her children as best she can, they still face many hardships in their later lives – including racism and discrimination – which Hattie prepares them for by instilling in them a strong work ethic and a deep sense of self-reliance.
The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Ayana Mathis is a testament to the power of resilience. Despite the hardships and struggles faced by Hattie and her family, they continue to persevere. This book encourages us to find strength in adversity and to never give up, no matter how tough life gets.
The book explores the impact of historical events on individual lives. It shows how the Great Migration and the Civil Rights Movement shaped the lives of Hattie and her family. It's a reminder that our personal stories are intertwined with the larger narrative of history.
Ayana Mathis beautifully portrays the complexity of family relationships. She shows us that families are not always perfect, but they are a source of strength and support. The book encourages us to appreciate our families, despite their flaws.
In The Twelve Tribes of Hattie, the characters struggle with their identities in a society that often marginalizes them. This book encourages us to embrace our identities and to stand up against discrimination and prejudice.
Despite the hardships faced by Hattie and her family, they never lose hope. This book reminds us of the importance of hope in our lives. It encourages us to stay hopeful, even in the face of adversity.
Quotes 3
The Twelve Tribes of Hattie is a remarkable, gut-wrenching novel that will leave you breathless. It's a must-read!
Oprah Winfrey - TV host, philanthropistAyana Mathis' debut novel is a searing, soaring, cathartic tale of a family's struggle for love and survival.
Michiko Kakutani - Literary criticThe Twelve Tribes of Hattie is a novel that will shake you to your core. It's a powerful, deeply moving narrative.
Ron Charles - Book critic