Thomas and Beulah by Rita Dove is a collection of forty-four connected narrative poems that follows the private history of Thomas and Beulah, semi-fictionalized representations of the author's maternal grandparents, over seventy years in Akron, Ohio, exploring themes of romance, family life, and the African American experience in the 20th century. The narrative includes references to racial harassment and systemic discrimination.

A reader who cherishes intimate, lyrical explorations of African American life and history will enjoy Thomas and Beulah. Comparable to Toni Morrison's Beloved and Gwendolyn Brooks' poetry, this collection is perfect for those who appreciate rich character development and evocative storytelling.

Thomas and Beulah by Rita Dove offers a poignant tapestry of African American life through lyrical, interwoven poems. Critics praise Dove's evocative language and historical depth but note occasional obscurity in narrative cohesion. Overall, the collection is lauded for its rich emotional resonance and portrayal of love’s evolution across decades.

Melancholic / Bittersweet / Nostalgic / Emotional / Contemplative

- Thomas and Beulah earned Rita Dove the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1987, making her the second African American to receive the award in that category.
- The book is a semi-fictionalized account inspired by the lives of Rita Dove's own grandparents, reflecting the African American experience in the 20th century.
- Rita Dove has stated that she wrote the poems in Thomas and Beulah in such a way that they explore the intricate and often unspoken emotional landscapes of a long marriage.

Plot Summary

Book Brief

Explore Thomas and Beulah reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Book Brief Thomas and Beulah

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Thomas and Beulah and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Thomas and Beulah

Book Brief

Thomas and Beulah

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Thomas and Beulah?