NC Reads Book Discussion: The American Queen

North Carolina Reads is North Carolina Humanities’ award-winning, statewide book club! North Carolina Reads annually features five books that explore issues of racial, social, and gender equity and the history and culture of North Carolina. All featured books pose critical questions about how North Carolinians view their personal roles in helping to promote and form a more just and inclusive society.  Learn more about the book selections here.

The American Queen by Vanessa Miller

Meet the queen of Happy Land. Transformative and breathtakingly honest, The American Queen is based on actual events that occurred between 1865-1889 and shares the unsung history of a Black woman who built a kingdom in Appalachia as a refuge for the courageous people who dared to dream of a different way of life. When the honorable Reverend William finally listens to Louella’s pleas and leads the formerly enslaved people out of their plantation, Louella begins to feel hope. Soon, William and Louella become the appointed king and queen of their self-proclaimed Kingdom of the Happy Land. And though they are still surrounded by opposition, they continue to share a message of joy and goodness — and fight for the freedom and dignity of all.

Registration is required to join our discussion of The American Queen.  Registration will begin in July.

NC Humanities’ virtual book event featuring author Vanessa Miller and Dr. Melissa Stuckey can be viewed here.