The Black Rose - by Tananarive Due (Paperback)

About the Book

This fictional account of a true story, based on the research and writings of Alex Haley, begins in 1867, when Madame C.J. Walker is born to former slaves on a Louisiana plantation. The story of how she rises from poverty and indignity to become America's first black female millionaire is told in this compelling, richly textured narrative.

Book Synopsis

"One of the most exciting novels of the year . . . The dramatic story of Madam C.J. Walker, America's first black female millionaire."--E. Lynn Harris

Born to former slaves on a Louisiana plantation in 1867, Madam C.J. Walker rose from poverty and indignity to become America's first black female millionaire, the head of a hugely successful beauty company, and a leading philanthropist in African American causes. Renowned author Alex Haley became fascinated by the story of this extraordinary heroine, and before his death in 1992, he embarked on the research and outline of a major novel based on her life. With The Black Rose, critically acclaimed writer Tananarive Due brings Haley's work to an inspiring completion.

Blending documented history, vivid dialogue, and a sweeping fictionalized narrative, Tananarive Due paints a vivid portrait of this passionate and tenacious pioneer and the unforgettable era in which she lived.

Praise for The Black Rose

"An artfully framed page-turner."--Essence

"An impressive accomplishment . . . Due's combination of historical study and fictional exploration endows this gripping tale with intimacy and emotional authenticity."--The Miami Herald

Review Quotes

"Tananarive Due is an engaging storyteller . . . The real-life Walker would probably have been pleased with the way Due depicts her. . . . The Black Rose is an inspiring, motivational book."--The Washington Post Book World

"A compelling narrative . . . This book is worth reading for anyone wanting a glimpse into what the human spirit can create with the odds stacked sky high."--USA Today

About the Author

Tananarive Due is a former features writer and columnist for the Miami Herald. She has written two highly acclaimed novels: The Between and My Soul to Keep. Ms. Due makes her home in Longview, Washington.