Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

First published in 1976 and winner of the Newbery Medal, this is a potent story of a tight-knit African American family experiencing prejudice and racism in Mississippi in the 1930s. The story is told from nine-year-old Cassie’s point of view; she’s the middle child in her family and the only girl.

As Cassie and her brothers go about their lives, we witness the injustices they regularly suffer and their growing awareness of their neighbours’ racism. Cassie’s family own their land and are determined to hold onto it, whatever threats may come. Cassie’s strong character and her loving family kept me enthralled with this story, despite the fears I held for them while reading it. This book made a powerful impression upon me as a child, and even more so as an adult.

Mildred D Taylor has said her books are based on oral history told by her elders, and Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry is the second book in a seven-book series. It would be a great book for a family or class to read and discuss together. It is also a necessary story for all children to read to better grasp the history of racism and its impact on children like Cassie and their families. Highly recommended for ages 10+.