It’s 1995 and Tati is 14 and desperately wanting to understand more about her father. But information about both he and Tati’s family’s past seems to be a tightly held secret by her mother and grandmother.
Tati believes there should be simple answers to her questions; what she does not realise is that there is a multi-generational silence stretching from the 1870s to today, with generations of women who remain silent.
From a history beginning with a plantation owner and his enslaved partner, each generation’s legacy is to give birth to daughters. Each understands that survival requires resilience as they move from slavery to seeking their own independent future.
As Tati learns more, she gradually understands the strength and resilience of each woman, leading to her determination to change and control her future. Emma, Evangeline, Jubi, Gladys and Tati – each of these strong, determined Dupree women make every effort to learn from past mistakes and improve the lives of the next generation. I cheered them all on.
This novel is a fascinating multi-generational family legacy. The multiple timelines may irritate and disorientate some readers, but I persisted and developed a bond and deep adoration for these women. Each chapter adds clarity, time and depth to their stories. At times I felt critical of their judgements but was ultimately moved to compassion and admiration for their strength and survival.
The Seven Daughters of Dupree made me reflect on the true impact of slavery and the enduring generational trauma and passed-down knowledge that continues to haunt families today.
It’s a compelling exploration of matriarchal history. Don’t miss it.
Book review by Claire Stanley
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nikesha Elise Williams is a two-time Emmy award winning producer, an award-winning author, and producer and host of the Black and Published podcast.
A narrative strategist by day and journalist always, her writing has appeared in The Washington Post, The Bitter Southerner, Essence, and Vox. Nikesha’s work has been supported by the Kimbilio Fiction Fellowship, the DeGroot Foundation, and the Tin House Summer Workshop.
A Chicago native, she lives in Florida with her family.
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