Natalie Baszile Boeken

From the author of Queen Sugar-now a critically acclaimed series on OWN directed by Ava Duvernay-comes a beautiful exploration and celebration of black farming in America.

Based on the acclaimed OWN TV series, this book delves into powerful themes of identity, community, and resilience. It explores the lives of its richly developed characters, offering deep insights into their struggles and triumphs. The narrative intertwines personal stories with broader social issues, making it both a compelling read and a thought-provoking commentary on contemporary life. With its emotional depth and engaging storytelling, it captures the essence of the series while delivering a unique literary experience.

The inspiration for the acclaimed OWN TV series produced by Oprah Winfrey and Ava DuVernay "Queen Sugar is a page-turning, heart-breaking novel of the new south, where the past is never truly past, but the future is a hot, bright promise. This is a story of family and the healing power of our connections—to each other, and to the rich land beneath our feet." —Tayari Jones, author of An American Marriage Readers, booksellers, and critics alike are embracing Queen Sugar and cheering for its heroine, Charley Bordelon, an African American woman and single mother struggling to build a new life amid the complexities of the contemporary South. When Charley unexpectedly inherits eight hundred acres of sugarcane land, she and her eleven-year-old daughter say goodbye to smoggy Los Angeles and head to Louisiana. She soon learns, however, that cane farming is always going to be a white man’s business. As the sweltering summer unfolds, Charley struggles to balance the overwhelming challenges of a farm in decline with the demands of family and the startling desires of her own heart.

Celebrated for its culinary insights, this book has garnered acclaim as a favorite food book by The Wall Street Journal. It explores diverse flavors and innovative recipes, emphasizing the joy of cooking and the importance of food culture. The author shares personal anecdotes and expert tips, inviting readers to experience the art of cooking in a fresh and engaging way. With a blend of tradition and modernity, it aims to inspire both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.