Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

by Mildred D. Taylor, Mildred D Taylor
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry cover
Good Books rating 4.44
Historical Fiction
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 848
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • Publisher: Fireside Books
  • Published: 1989-01-01
  • Reviews: 4

Winner of the 1977 Newbery Medal, this impactful novel has left a lasting impression on millions of readers. Set in Mississippi during the height of the Depression, it vividly portrays the struggles of a family determined to uphold their integrity and independence amid systemic racism and social injustice. The story is a poignant exploration of resilience and the human spirit./n/nThe novel is celebrated for its authentic portrayal of life in the segregated South, offering a profound and moving narrative that resonates with readers of all ages. It is a testament to the enduring power of family and the fight for equality.

Reviews
Please Read It To Me · 2024-02-29
engrossing 4.50

The story is thoughtful and engrossing, hooking the reader from the first chapter. It serves as a fantastic introduction to historical fiction.

This reviewer found the story to be thoughtful and engrossing, noting that it hooked them from the very first chapter. They praise the book as a fantastic introduction to historical fiction, highlighting its ability to captivate readers with its compelling narrative. The depth and thoughtfulness of the story are particularly noted, making it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    Thoughtful and engrossing, the story had me hooked from the first chapter.

    This is a fantastic historical fiction introduction.

    The narrative is both compelling and deeply engaging.

The Starving Artist · 2020-03-03
insightful 4.00

It's a great historical read that deals with black history and the Jim Crow era. The setting in the 1930s South adds depth to the narrative.

This review highlights the book as a great historical read, particularly for its depiction of black history and the Jim Crow era. The setting in the 1930s South is noted for adding significant depth to the narrative. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to transport readers to a different time and place, providing a rich and educational experience.

Quick quotes

    It is a great history read, dealing with black history and the Jim Crow era.

    But also with the 1930s, the South, and small town America.

    The story is a compelling blend of historical context and personal narrative.

Julia's Books · 2019-02-28
gripping 4.50

The novel is gripping with authentic dialogue and engaging characters. The writing flows seamlessly, making it a compelling read.

This reviewer found the novel incredibly gripping, highlighting the authentic dialogue and the engaging characters. The writing style is praised for its smooth flow, making the story compelling from start to finish. They appreciated the depth of the characters and the way the dialogue felt real and relatable. Overall, it's a book that keeps you hooked.

Quick quotes

    I found this novel really gripping.

    I loved the characters, the dialogue with and between the children felt very authentic.

    The writing flows seamlessly.

The Guardian · 2011-10-28
emotional 4.75

The story is heart-rending, evoking both laughter and sorrow, making it a deeply emotional read.

This reviewer describes the book as one of the most heart-rending stories they have ever read. The narrative evokes a wide range of emotions, from laughter to deep sorrow, making it a deeply moving experience. The reviewer appreciates the emotional depth of the story, which is both poignant and powerful. The book's ability to convey the harsh realities of racism and inequality is particularly noteworthy, making it a compelling and unforgettable read.

Quick quotes

    Possibly the most heart-rending story I have ever read.

    Roll of Thunder brought tears of both laughter and sorrow to my eyes.

    The book's ability to convey the harsh realities of racism and inequality is particularly noteworthy.

Appears in Lists