Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
"There are things you can't back down on, things you gotta take a stand on. But it's up to you to decide what them things are."
Readers, there’s a reason CRY is in the title of this book! If you made it through reading Mildred D. Taylor’s classic: Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry without shedding a tear, we are in awe of your sturdy sensibilities because we sobbed—but not on the podcast, don’t worry about today’s episode being full of sniffles.
This poignant, warm, and exceptionally literary children’s classic encouraged conversation on craft, character development, and loving family units. We also spent some time considering why this book feels like it could be classified as an adult novel and the value it would add to a middle or high school curriculum. And, of course, we each offer a couple of books to pair with this middle grade classic. This conversation is largely spoiler-free, and we encourage you to listen whether or not you’ve read this book recently (or at all)!
There was no way to fit everything about this phenomenal book in to one hour long discussion today. We’re looking forward to discussing Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry on Wednesday March 29th at 7pm EST with our Patreon Lit Scholars. Join us for what is sure to be a thoughtful, nostalgic, and passionate conversation. Head to patreon.com/novelpairings to sign up!
Thanks for reading Novel Pairings! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support our small business.
Here are a few links on Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry and children’s literature to peruse:
‘Roll of Thunder’ as a love letter home (Scalawag)
Race, Prison Book Bans, and the Power of Storytelling (PEN America)
We’re looking forward to diving into more historical fiction in March with Catherine Called Birdy. Throughout the month, we will have a variety of bonus episodes and events to help you read deeper and more critically. It’s never too late to join our community. We have a whole backlog of classes and content for you to enjoy and welcome you to our events no matter how far you’ve read in the book (or whether you read it at all!). March is off to a fantastic start with reading, learning, and lively conversations you won’t want to miss! Come join the coziest, nerdiest community on the internet.
We hope you enjoy today’s episode and stick around for even more fantastical journeys, coming-of-age stories, orphans, scamps, and nostalgia!
Happy Kid Lit Reading,
Chelsey & Sara