Take My Hand Book Summary

by Dolen Perkins-Valdez108

TL;DR

A Black nurse in 1973 Alabama confronts a grave injustice done to her young patients, highlighting themes of accountability, race, and redemption.

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What is Take My Hand about

'Take My Hand' by Dolen Perkins-Valdez is a gripping novel set in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1973. The story follows Civil Townsend, a Black nurse fresh out of nursing school who aims to make a difference in her community. She starts working at the Montgomery Family Planning Clinic, where she is shocked to find her new patients are two young girls, Erica and India Williams, who have been put on birth control merely because they are poor and Black. As Civil becomes personally involved with the girls and their family, she discovers an appalling injustice that propels her into a battle for their rights. The novel, inspired by true events, explores themes of accountability, race, poverty, and women's rights.

Take My Hand 5 Key Takeaways

Civil Townsend's First Job

Fresh out of nursing school, Civil Townsend starts her job at the Montgomery Family Planning Clinic, eager to make a positive impact on her community.

The Williams Sisters

Civil is assigned to Erica and India Williams, two young Black girls, who are put on birth control despite their young age and lack of sexual activity, highlighting the racial and economic biases in the healthcare system.

The Injustice Uncovered

Civil becomes deeply involved with the Williams family and discovers that the girls have been subjected to sterilization without their consent, triggering her quest for justice.

Civil's Personal Struggle

Civil grapples with her moral and professional responsibilities, eventually taking a stand against the systemic injustices faced by her patients.

Decades Later

Years later, as Dr. Civil Townsend plans her retirement, she reflects on the enduring impact of the injustices she fought against, emphasizing the importance of remembering history to prevent its repetition.

Take My Hand Videos

Dolen Perkins-Valdez Discusses Novel 'Take My Hand - YouTube

Top Take My Hand Quotes

  • “There are people and stories that refuse to be forgotten. That must not be forgotten.”
  • “History repeats what we don’t remember.”

Who should read Take My Hand?

'Take My Hand' is ideal for readers interested in historical fiction, social justice, and stories of personal and moral courage. It offers profound insights into racial and healthcare inequities, making it a compelling read for those who seek to understand and challenge systemic issues.

About the Author

Dolen Perkins-Valdez is a New York Times bestselling author known for her novels 'Wench' and 'Balm.' Her works often explore themes of race, gender, and history. She has received numerous accolades, including the NAACP Image Award. Perkins-Valdez’s storytelling is deeply empathetic, bringing to light the untold stories of marginalized communities.

Take My Hand Best Reviews

  • “Deeply empathetic yet unflinching in its gaze…an unforgettable exploration of responsibility and redemption.”—Celeste Ng
  • “Highlights the horrific discrepancies in our healthcare system and illustrates their heartbreaking consequences.”—Essence

Take My Hand FAQs

What true story is 'Take My Hand' based on?

The novel is inspired by the true story of the Relf sisters, who were sterilized without their family's permission at ages twelve and fourteen in 1973.

What is the theme of 'Take My Hand'?

The novel tackles issues related to race, poverty, class, and women's rights while examining moral, personal, professional, and governmental boundaries.