Truevine: Two Brothers, a Kidnapping, and a Mother's Quest: A True Story of the Jim Crow South
Truevine: Two Brothers, a Kidnapping, and a Mother's Quest: A True Story of the Jim Crow South
Book Brief
BetaTruevine: Two Brothers, a Kidnapping, and a Mother's Quest: A True Story of the Jim Crow South
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2016420
Book • Nonfiction
Virginia • 1900s
2016
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Truevine: Two Brothers, a Kidnapping, and a Mother's Quest: A True Story of the Jim Crow South by Beth Macy explores the true story of two African American brothers with albinism who were taken and exploited by a circus during the Jim Crow era. The book highlights their mother's relentless fight for their rights and dignity amidst the racial injustice of the time.
Informative
Mysterious
Challenging
Dark
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
4,339 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Truevine: Two Brothers, a Kidnapping, and a Mother's Quest: A True Story of the Jim Crow South by Beth Macy is praised for its meticulous research and compelling narrative, highlighting racial injustice in America's history. However, some critics note its dense detail can overwhelm the central story. Balancing historical context with personal stories, it's an enlightening but complex read.
Who Should Read Truevine: Two Brothers, a Kidnapping, and a Mother's Quest: A True Story of the Jim Crow South?
Readers who enjoy Truevine by Beth Macy are likely interested in historical narratives, social justice, and racial history. Fans of The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson or Devil in the Grove by Gilbert King would appreciate the deep dive into the Jim Crow South and themes of resilience and agency.
4,339 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Truevine was written by Beth Macy, a journalist who has a knack for uncovering hidden histories and bringing them to a wider audience, adding a rich depth to the stories from America's past.
The book explores themes of race, exploitation, and resilience, set against the backdrop of a segregated circus industry in the Jim Crow South, which allows it to shed light on broader social issues while maintaining a personal narrative.
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Truevine was named as a finalist for the prestigious Kirkus Prize in 2016, highlighting its impact and contribution to the literary and historical discussions of its time.
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420
Book • Nonfiction
Virginia • 1900s
2016
Adult
18+ years
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