Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor tells the story of one African American family, fighting to stay together and strong in the face of brutal racial attacks, illness, poverty, and betrayal in the deep southern state of Mississippi in the 1930's. This Newberry Award winning novel tugs at your heart and stirs up emotions. Nine -year old Cassie Logan is the voice of this inspiring story. The numerous struggles that the Logan family face throughout the book illustrate the realities the African Americans face during the early 1930's. .
The diversity of the characters add an interesting flair to "Roll of Thunder." Papa (David) Logan, a seasonal railroad worker, is headstrong and determined to keep his family safe no matter what the cost. Next to his family, the Logan family's land is Papa's greatest priority. Big Ma (Papa Logan's mother), is the mediator of the family. The Logan's consistently seek her advice and respect her values and wishes. Mrs. (Mary) Logan, a school teacher, attempts to shield her family from the evils of the world and repeatedly reveals her emotions and fears to readers. Uncle Hammer, David's brother, is hot headed with an outrageous temper that can work for or against him. Mr. Morrison, a hired hand, becomes more than a handy man by the end of the story. The Logan children Cassie, Stacey, Christopher- John and Little-Man, have personalities that range from highly outspoken to timid and shy. T.J., the antagonist of the story, is the source of most the conflict throughout the s!.
tory. .
A gut-wrenching, tear-jerking cliffhanger "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" keeps you on the edge of your seat. It offers a better understanding of how difficult and frustrating it was for people of color during the days of segregation and widespread prejudice. The importance of family unity is stressed constantly throughout this moving tale. The dialogue of the story flows naturally.
