Roll Of Thunder Hear My Cry Strawberry
Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry Strawberry is a novel written by Mildred D. Taylor that was published in 1976. It is a story set in the 1930s in Mississippi during the Great Depression and focuses on the lives of black families who are struggling to survive in a deeply segregated society. The novel deals with themes of racism, prejudice, inequality, and injustice, as well as the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The Plot of Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry Strawberry
The novel is narrated by Cassie Logan, a young black girl who lives with her family on a farm in Mississippi. Cassie's family owns their land, which is rare for black families in the area, and they are proud of their independence and self-sufficiency. However, they face constant challenges from the white community, who seek to undermine their success and maintain the status quo of racial inequality.
The main conflict of the novel revolves around the black community's efforts to boycott a white-owned store that mistreats and cheats its black customers. The boycott is met with violent retaliation from the white community, and Cassie and her family are forced to confront the harsh realities of racism and prejudice in their society.
The Characters of Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry Strawberry
The novel features a cast of diverse and complex characters, each of whom represents a different aspect of the black experience in the South during the 1930s. Cassie Logan is the protagonist of the novel, and her perspective provides insight into the challenges and struggles faced by black children during this time.
Other key characters include Cassie's parents, David and Mary Logan, who are strong, independent, and fiercely protective of their family; Uncle Hammer, David's brother, who is a successful businessman and provides financial support to the family; and T.J. Avery, a troubled young boy who becomes involved in criminal activity and ultimately suffers the consequences of his actions.
The Themes of Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry Strawberry
The novel deals with a number of important themes that are still relevant today, including:
- Racism and Prejudice: The novel illustrates the deep-seated racism that existed in the South during the 1930s and the devastating impact it had on black families.
- Inequality and Injustice: The novel highlights the ways in which black families were systematically oppressed and denied basic rights and freedoms.
- Family and Community: The novel celebrates the resilience and strength of black families and communities in the face of adversity.
- Education and Empowerment: The novel emphasizes the importance of education as a tool for empowerment and self-determination.
The Legacy of Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry Strawberry
Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry Strawberry has had a lasting impact on readers since its publication in 1976. It has been widely praised for its honest and nuanced portrayal of the black experience in the South during the 1930s, as well as its powerful themes and memorable characters.
The novel has been adapted into a play and a television movie, and it continues to be studied in schools and universities across the United States. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its relevance and importance in the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice.
Conclusion
Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry Strawberry is a powerful and moving novel that explores the themes of racism, prejudice, inequality, and injustice in the South during the 1930s. Its memorable characters and powerful themes continue to resonate with readers today, making it an enduring classic of African-American literature.