"Inspired by true events this heartbreaking, eloquent, deeply compelling novel explores the case of children in the USA being sterilised without their consent. "
Haunting and powerful Take My Hand burrowed its way into my awareness and will stay with me. Newly qualified nurse Civil Townsend is set to truly take care of her African American community, but a shocking discovery tests her resolve and courage. This skilful blend of fact and fiction is set in 2016 and early 1970’s Alabama, and the sense of place and time is extraordinary.
The writing brings to life the characters and period, and surround the facts of the case so that it is all too easy to see, believe, begin to comprehend the enormity of actions taken. Author Dolen Perkins-Valdez explains the case in the Author’s Note and why she wrote a novel rather than non fiction.
Not only does she bring a horrifying time in the not too distant past to life, she also highlights current issues too. This is a superbly readable and rewarding book, with a moral and ethical messaging that soaks into and carries through each page. Deep breath time, I want to shout about this novel, yes, it is at times painful, but it is also imbued with hope and just had to be included as a LoveReading Star Book, Take My Hand is provocative, emotional, and so relevant it hurts.
| Primary Genre | Historical Fiction |
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Closing date: 31/10/2026
AS SEEN ON BBC2 BETWEEN THE COVERS BOOK CLUBMontgomery, Alabama. 1973. Fresh out of nursing school, Civil Townsend has big plans to make a difference in her community.
Take My Hand features in the following genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Book Club Recommendations, Liz Robinson's Picks of the Month, Recommendations, Star Books, Family Drama, Sharing Diverse Voices, Narrative theme: Social issues, Racism and racial discrimination / Anti-racism, Fiction: narrative themes, Social discrimination and social justice, Social and ethical issues, Society and culture: general, Society and Social Sciences
Paperback, Hardback, Ebook. £8.99, down from the £9.99 cover price. In Stock.
Take My Hand was written by Dolen Perkins-Valdez and published by Phoenix an imprint of Orion
Take My Hand has 359 pages
£8.99, reduced from £9.99. In Stock.
