REVIEW - The Queen of Sugar Hill ebook

 

The Queen of Sugar Hill by ReShonda Tate (ebook)

OVERVIEW

This was the first book that I have read from the prolific author ReShonda Tate who was unknown to me! I was impressed and need to read more of her books going forward. 

The was a historical fiction novel based on the life of Hatte McDaniel. It is a thought-provoking and powerful story about an amazing woman. Hattie was bright, multi-talented (she sang, acted, and danced), and an Academy Award winner. This is her story told in the first person which made a compelling read!

This novel erased so many of my beliefs that Los Angeles (my hometown) was not segregated in the 20th century and was a haven for Blacks which is what I was taught as a child. So many stories in the book totally disproved my previous mindset. I am so saddened, convicted, and horrified by it all. But most especially since I did not know this continuing issue in Los Angeles history, I was shocked when colorism and racism reared their ugly head again with Los Angeles City Councilmembers in 2022. Now, I won't be shocked again. But we can be the change - we have a lot of work to do in this beautiful city, but we can and will do it!

OVERALL REVIEW: 4.0 stars

Writing: 4.0 stars

This is Hattie McDaniel's story told in the first person. From what I could ascertain, the author was very true to the life of Hattie McDaniel, her life experiences, and how she REALLY lived her life. It was a fascinating read and to read it in first person was great! The author writes strong prose with great descriptions, interesting dialogue, and fantastic peeks into Hattie's thoughts. 

Character development: 4.0 stars

The main character is Hattie McDaniel. She was an actor and performer from the young age of six and progressed to winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress (Gone With The Wind). One would have thought that she would have become a significant star as she was the first Black individual to ever win an Academy Award, period. Buckle up and get ready for a very bumpy ride as this novel plays out!

Hattie had a large circle of close personal friends, husbands/lovers, and Hollywood friends. They were the secondary characters. But there were a lot of secondary characters as is normal in a historical fiction novel. 

The tertiary character is the Hollywood power establishment of white male studio executives, white actors, and various Black groups such as the NAACP and sororities. 

Storyline:  4.0 stars

This novel starts when Hattie wins the Academy Award and follows her life through to her death. She was an incredible human being who was the child of former enslaved parents who rose to prominence in the movie and entertainment industry. 

The main location was Los Angeles, California.  

Memorable/Informative:  4.0 stars

The novel made me actively face the fact that I did not grow up in a utopian, perfect city. Los Angeles has its flaws and ugly history. But, we can, jointly and as individuals, work together to repair this flawed city to make it a place where all are welcome and equal. 

Book cover: 4.0 stars

Very pretty and appropriate!

Book title: 4.0 stars 

Totally on point! 

DEFINITE recommend

EBOOK DETAILS

NetGalley ARC (ebook)

The Queen of Sugar Hill by ReShonda Tate

368 pages 

William Morrow

Release date of 01/30/2024

INFORMATIONAL LINKS

ReShonda Tate

My Goodreads review

William Morrow

NetGalley

Happy reading! 📚

Dorothea 💜