Maud Martha by Gwendolyn Brooks is the only novel by this esteemed and much honored American poet. Published in 1951, its language is both spare and profound; it reads beautifully and poetically without seeming affected. It’s the story of a middle-class, mid-twentieth century black woman leading an ordinary, extraordinary life.

The story opens when Maud Martha is seven, observing the adults around her with wonder and bafflement. The story begins to grip as she enters adulthood, with its dating rituals, love, jealousy, marriage, motherhood, disappointment, loss, contentment and joy.

It skims the surface of segregation and bias, and explores familial and neighborly bonds —  all within a surprisingly short novel.  Presented here is a selection of quotes from Maud Martha by Gwendolyn Brooks, a book that deserves to be rediscovered and treasured. Read More→