Among several real historical figures depicted in Mourner’s Bench are Daisy Bates, a civil rights activist who led the “Little Rock Nine” in the integration of Little Rock Central High School; John Walker, a civil rights lawyer; and Carrie Dilworth, who was an officer for the racial egalitarian Southern Tenant Farmers’ Union in the 1930s.
Critics and readers have praised “Mourner’s Bench,” citing its realistic portrayal of the events and people of the time. Michael Cart of Booklist hailed the novel for “successfully dramatizing an essential era in American history.” Dennis Lehane, author of “Shutter Island,” lauded the novel as “a stunning debut.”
An inspiring mother-daughter tale set in the Civil Rights era Deep South, with religious overtones and headstrong characters.
An astute coming-of-age tale set against an all-too-relevant background.
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