Summary:
River, Cross My Heart: A Novel (Oprah’s Book Club) by Breena Clarke is a powerful and emotionally charged story about a young African American girl named Johnnie Mae, whose life is turned upside down when her sister drowns in the Potomac River.
Book genre:
Fiction
Main topic:
The main topic of the book is the impact of grief and loss on a young girl’s life, as well as the resilience and strength of the African American community.
Key ideas:
- Grief and loss
- Familial bonds
- Race and identity
- Community support
- Survival and resilience
Main parts of the book:
The book is divided into three parts:
- Part 1: Introduces the main characters and setting, and sets the stage for the tragic event that will change the course of Johnnie Mae’s life.
- Part 2: Follows Johnnie Mae and her family as they cope with their loss and struggle to move on.
- Part 3: Explores the ways in which Johnnie Mae’s grief and sense of loss shape her into a strong and independent young woman.
Key takeaways:
- Grief and loss can have a profound impact on individuals and their families, but with the support of a strong community, it is possible to overcome even the most tragic of events.
- The bonds of family and community are essential for survival and resilience in the face of adversity.
- Race and identity play a significant role in shaping one’s experiences and perception of the world.
Author’s background and qualifications:
Breena Clarke is an award-winning author whose work often explores the African American experience. She has a degree in journalism and has taught literature and writing at several universities. Her previous novels include Angels Make Their Hope Here and Stand the Storm.
Target audience:
This book is suitable for readers who are interested in exploring themes of race, identity, family, and community. It is also a powerful and engaging read for those who enjoy emotional and character-driven stories.
Publisher and first publication date:
Published by Little, Brown, and Company, River, Cross My Heart: A Novel was first released in 1999. It was later selected by Oprah Winfrey for her Book Club, bringing it to a wider audience and garnering even more critical acclaim.