Grace F. Edwards (1933–2020)

This novel, considered "lost", is a saga of Black travail and Black joy in Harlem and opens with a riot against the police killing of a GI after WWII. Frieda loses her husband and gives birth to daughter Celia on that same dreadful night. There's also a full background of oppression and murder down South in the backgrounds of most of the characters. Celia grows up studious and overprotected, but her friendship with Tessie, the upstairs neighbor, who's "fast" according to the stoop queens, show more changes her life. Celia fights against the prevailing racism at the publishing company where she's hired as a token, and falls in love with two men who are both right for her. She is able to resist and persevere, despite the crushing burdens she carries. show less

Wonderful descriptions of Harlem life and culture. Made me want to read more of her books.