A Shining Thread of Hope

Rich in historiography as well as history. An excellent resource for any US History teacher or student. Information is easy to find, the bibliography is extensive and the annotations are informative. All of this and I looked forward to reading each page!

This riveting narrative, a kind of polyphonic chorus giving voice to American black women, adds an important chapter in the ongoing project of understanding our nation's history. Covering a span of almost 400 years, the work moves beyond stereotypes, beyond idealization, to recognize the richness of the stories they tell. With superbly crafted prose, the authors document difficulties and challenges along with achievements and triumphs as they interpret the profound complexities of gender, race and class in the lives of African American women.

A Shining Thread of Hope: The History of Black Women in America is a book for the country. This book is not just a history written on a specific race and gender, but it offers invaluable insights on the lives of a group of people who simply did not give up hope. A Shining Thread of Hope is a book seems to be in a class by itself. It's both academic and non-academic. It proves to be a wonderfully written narrative that any age, class, gender or race can learn from and enjoy. I applaud the authors for their collaborating efforts to bring to life the stories of Black women, who seem to be forgotten. I would encourage all people to read this book, for it will provide them with food for the mind and soul. A Shining Thread of Hope leaves one's heart full of warmth and love for all humanity. It encourages us to fight for what is right and demand respect of each other as human beings. (Marshanda Smith)

I have read a number of books about Black Women and this one is in a different league from the others. It if, as far as I know, the FIRST book to tell the narrative history of African American women in the United States and it tells it in a riviting fashing "warts and all." I had planned on spending several days working my way through a "history" book and stayed up till 4:00 in the morning to finish it in a single sitting. I can without qualification say that I think anyone who cares about American history should read this volume.

The strengths, the determination, the power, the agony--I'm sorry but I hadn't even begun to grasp what Black women have gone through until I read this book. Such beautiful women that I want to know more about; that I want to tell "I'm sorry. Forgive us. What can we do now?" This book belongs in every history class, in every women's studies class, in every home where people want to raise their children with an understanding and respect for others.