Dolen Perkins-Valdez Libros

The international word-of-mouth hit inspired by heartbreaking true events, Take My Hand is an unputdownable and inspiring story of a young Black nurse who risks everything to take a stand

Exploring themes of heritage and atonement, the story follows Nikki as she uncovers her family's connection to a lost Appalachian kingdom founded by formerly enslaved individuals. After years of estrangement, Nikki visits her grandmother, who reveals the legacy of Queen Luella and the significance of their ancestral land. As Nikki learns about the thriving community that once existed and the need to protect its history, she realizes that reconciling the past may be her responsibility, urging her to confront generational mistakes.

Set in the years before the Civil War, the narrative follows four black enslaved women, exploring themes of power, freedom, love, and dependence. Drawing on historical context, it weaves a tale that highlights moral complexities and personal struggles, reminiscent of works by Lalita Tademy and Edward P. Jones. This debut novel showcases Dolen Perkins-Valdez's unique voice and storytelling ability, marking her as a promising new author in contemporary fiction.