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71 pages 2 hours read

Take My Hand

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022

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Book Brief

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Dolen Perkins-Valdez

Take My Hand

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Montgomery, Alabama • 1970s

Publication Year

2022

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez follows Dr. Civil Townsend, an OB-GYN, as she recounts her experiences as a young nurse in 1973, uncovering and challenging the forced sterilization of two young Black girls in Montgomery, Alabama. The novel explores systemic racism in healthcare, the dynamics of power and privilege, and the enduring strength of community and family amidst injustices. This novel contains depictions of racially motivated prejudice and forced sterilization.

Emotional

Challenging

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

98,712 ratings

89%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez has been commended for its powerful narrative and historical accuracy, with many reviewers praising the emotional depth and compelling portrayal of social justice issues. Some critique its pacing and predictability. Overall, it offers a gripping and thought-provoking read that resonates with contemporary issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Take My Hand?

Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez will captivate readers who appreciated the intricate emotional landscapes in The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot and the historical depth of The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead. This novel is ideal for those interested in social justice, historical fiction, and deeply personal narratives.

4.4

98,712 ratings

89%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

Character List

Civil Townsend

The protagonist who navigates two timelines, starting as a young nurse at a community health clinic, and later as a practicing OB/GYN. She reflects on her past experiences and addresses her daughter throughout the novel.

Civil's ex-boyfriend from a well-off family who evolves from an immature young man to a supportive ally in her mission to improve healthcare practices.

Civil's best friend at the clinic who stands together with her to change patient care practices, highlighting the contrast in privilege between them.

The father of India and Erica who works to provide for his family amid challenging circumstances and finds personal growth through the novel.

Mace's mother, known as Mrs. Williams, who acts as a strong matriarch in her family and a surrogate mother to both the sisters and Civil.

The two sisters around whom the main conflicts unfold, highlighting the impact of systemic issues in healthcare. Erica serves as India's caretaker and voice.

A young white attorney who represents the Williams family in their legal case, embodying a respectful and supportive role throughout the process.

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Montgomery, Alabama • 1970s

Publication Year

2022

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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