queenkeevs 's review for:

Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez

4.0

emotional inspiring sad tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Plot

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: No

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This was powerful and emotional. Dealing heavily with the intersection of race, medicine, and bodily autonomy in 1970s Alabama. Civil Townsend, is a young Black nurse determined to make a difference. Civil uncovers the injustices faced by two young girls placed under her care.

Not at all surprising is this is inspired by real-life events. Shining a light on the systemic abuse that targeted marginalized communities under the guise of public welfare. Civil struggles with her role in the lives of these young girls and takes a stand to get justice for them and all women and girls like them. 

The characters are so relatable. They could be anyone you know. This one will stay with me for a long time, as a mother a woman. It will make you question systems and beliefs on legislation and policy designed to control the rights and freedoms of others. The freedom of choice, or the illusion of choice and who holds that responsible.