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Summary: Fast Reading and Interesting Historically
Review: This historical novel was made all the better because the characters were descendents of the author. It's obvious that some tedious research had to be done before the author could even start the creative process of writing this novel. The prose is simplistic but the story is always interesting and moves quickly. The book is very thought provoking in terms of slavery and how far the issues of race have come in this county over a relatively short time span of about 160 years.
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Summary: Please Read This Book!
Review: This is an unbelievable book. It's like The Color Purple times 100. I am a bit picky about books, but this blew me away. I read 400 pages in a day and a half. You will laugh, cry, and worry about all of the characters. They will inhabit your thoughts, dreams for weeks after you finish it. It's astonishing that this is Lalita Tademy's first work. PS I emailed the author a couple questions about the story and got a response within days. (...)
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Summary: Read this book!
Review: I am a white Australian woman. Only one of the words in that description gives me something in common with Ms Tademy. But it's a pretty big thing. "Cane River" is incredible. It is an absolutely non-romanticised story of black slavery in America's south, following the fortunes of Ms Tademy's maternal relations. If you ever thought it was hard being a woman, just imagine being a slave and a woman. When you read this book, you'll feel sad and outraged at what these women must endure. But at the same time, you can't help but rejoice in the giant steps forward these women take with each generation, and the sense of love and loyalty which forms the backbone of their families and gives them the strength to struggle. This really is an amazing story.
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Summary: And you think YOU'VE come a long way...
Review: This book is one of inspiration and admiration. You'll close the book knowing that no matter what obstacles litter your path, they CAN be overcome. The women of this family face slavery, poverty, racism, and sexism, yet find a way to rise above it all. They demonstrate a will and desire that allow them to make a stronger future for each generation. This isn't just another book about slavery. It's so much more. It begins with a story of a family of slaves and takes you through each generation's growth and evolution. Don't miss out on this one. It's worth every minute, every page, every word.
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Summary: An excellent genealogical story!
Review: CANE RIVER is a phenomenal genealogical study. Although it is written as fiction, the truth sang out. Ms. Tademy should be commended for her hard work and dediction to her family's lineage.I "read" this book via audio CD. Edwina Moore, Shari Belafonte, and Jo Marie Payton read this story with compassion and conciseness. Their voices made me feel like I was present during the era of the story. They, too, should be commended.
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Summary: Couldn't put it down
Review: Cane River as an absolutely fantasic work of art. Ms. Tademy has a spell-binding way of writing that draws you into each of the real-life characters of her timeless family story. This book was educational as well as entertaining. It made me cry, it made me think. The book is so engulfing in it's story, that you just don't want to put it down. It is very smoothly written; thus, an easy and quick read. I would highly recommend this book to those who are interested in genealogy, African-American history, sagas, and an edge of the seat read.
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Summary: A novel that is very well written.
Review: I admire people who are able to trace their families trees. Lalita, was able to trace 7 generations and if she or her siblings has kids there is an 8th generation. I really enjoyed reading Lalita's novel and learning about the tribes and tribulations that unfolded among her female ancestors: Suzette, Philomene and Emily. Natchitoches, Louisiana is a very small town with a lot of history. Steele Magnolia was filmed there and Cane River is famous for it's Christmas lights . Each time I visit my relatives in Natchitoches, I bring home a bit of history. This book is very informative as well as educational.
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Summary: Fabulous!!!
Review: The book stay with you long after you put it down. Life, love and the lessons learned. Highly recommended.
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Summary: What a great read!!!!
Review: If you love characters to stay with you long after the book is done--pick this up. I thoroughly enjoyed this. Love, life and the lessons learned.
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Summary: Raw Data Comes Alive
Review: I have done some extended genealogical research, and that alone can be fulfilling and at times exciting. But I found myself wishing I could fill in the gaps that mere archival records did not reveal. Lalita Tademy was able to flesh out her ancestors and tell their story, albeit fictionalized, but what an accomplishment! Not a classic in the literary sense, but written in a way that most genealogists would give anything to be talented enough to write. Give her credit for recognizing a very interesting family history, and give her female ancestors credit for giving her this remarkable story.
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