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Red River

lalita tademy

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Hailed as "powerful,""accomplished," and "spellbinding," Lalita Tademy's first novel Cane River was a New York Times bestseller and the 2001 Oprah Book Club Summer Selection. Now with her evocative, luminous style and painstaking research, she takes her family's story even further, back to a little-chronicled, deliberately-forgotten time...and the struggle of three extraordinary generations of African-American men to forge brutal injustice and shattered promise into a limitless future for their children... RED RIVERFor the newly-freed black residents of Colfax, Louisiana, the beginning of Reconstruction promised them the right to vote, own property-and at last control their own lives.Tademy saw a chance to start a school for his children and neighbors. His friend Israel Smith was determined to start a community business and gain economic freedom. But in the space of a day, marauding whites would "take back" Colfax in one of the deadliest cases of racial violence in the South. In the bitter aftermath, Sam and Israel's fight to recover and build their dreams will draw on the best they and their families have to give-and the worst they couldn't have foreseen. Sam's hidden resilience will make him an unexpected leader, even as it puts his conscience and life on the line. Israel finds ironic success-and the bitterest of betrayals. And their greatest challenge will be to pass on to their sons and grandsons a proud heritage never forgotten-and the strength to meet the demands of the past and future in their own unique ways. An unforgettable achievement, a history brought to vibrant life through one of the most memorable families in fiction, RED RIVER is about fathers and sons, husbands and wives-and the hopeful, heartbreaking choices we all must make to claim the legacy that is ours.

420 pages, Hardcover

First published December 4,2006

This edition

Format
420 pages, Hardcover
Published
January 3, 2007 by Grand Central Publishing
ISBN
9780446578981
ASIN
0446578983
Language
English

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About the author

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lalita tademy

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LALITA TADEMY left the corporate world to immerse herself in tracing her family's history and writing her first historical novel, CANE RIVER. Her debut was selected by Oprah Winfrey as her summer book group pick in 2001.

Lalita Tademy's second historical novel, RED RIVER is set during Reconstruction-era Louisiana a time period and subject matter often summarily skimmed in our history books. The story of Red River begins in 1873, and follows the ramifications of an incident on Easter Sunday of that year on successive generations of two families involved.

In her latest work, Citizens Creek, Tademy brings us the evocative story of a once-enslaved man who buys his freedom after serving as a translator during the American Indian Wars, and his granddaughter, who sustains his legacy of courage. Citizens Creekwill be released in November 2014.

Photograph courtesy of the author.

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Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
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100 reviews All reviews
Profile Image for Kimberly .
Sampaw
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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I simply couldn't put it down.

It was so engaging that I didn't want it to end.

Truly, the corporate world's loss has been our gain.

Thank you, Ms Tademy, for these wonderful gifts of "Cane" and "Red River".

I wholeheartedly invite everyone to read these two books.

You will be forever changed, just as I have been.

The stories within these pages are not only captivating but also have the power to touch your soul and make you see the world in a different light.

Once you start reading, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of rich characters and vivid landscapes.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the magic that Ms Tademy has created.

Pick up these books today and prepare to be amazed.
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exoticismisgross
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Well, this book truly brought my reading to a halt.

I made numerous attempts to engage with it, yet I ultimately ceased reading, constantly entertaining the thought that I would return to it. However, instead, it simply lies on my nightstand, seemingly staring at me.

I have always despised giving up on a book. But since I am avoiding this particular one, I find myself not reading anything at all. Consequently, I am also avoiding all of my other books, which I truly loathe!

Therefore, I am placing it back in my stack, hoping that perhaps one day I will be able to give it another try.

I really detest quitting books, but unfortunately, this book did not have the same allure for me as "Cane River" (the author's other work).

It's a frustrating situation, but I'm still holding out hope that I might discover its hidden gems upon a future reading.
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AnimeSrk
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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I remember vividly that I loved "Cane River" when I read it 16 years ago.

However, when I listened to it this time, I just didn't seem to care.

Back then, I was in a completely different place in my life. I had been married for a few years and had just moved into our new house in Illinois. I wasn't a mother yet.

Now, so much time has passed. My son is already a teenager, and we are living in a different state. But the good news is that I'm still married to the same great guy.

It's interesting how our perspectives and interests can change over time. Maybe it's because of the different stages of life we go through. Or perhaps it's due to the various experiences that shape us.

Nevertheless, I still have fond memories of that first encounter with "Cane River" all those years ago. And although my reaction was different this time, it doesn't take away from the value and significance the book holds for me.

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sunnysg1210
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Follow up to Cane River offers a captivating exploration of the lives of families during and after the Civil War in Louisiana. It delves deep into the historical context, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs these families faced.

We witness the struggles of those who endured the hardships of war, the impact it had on their relationships, and how they rebuilt their lives in the aftermath. The stories are rich with detail, bringing to life the emotions and experiences of the characters.

From the perspective of different family members, we gain insights into their hopes, dreams, and the sacrifices they made. This follow-up not only continues the narrative of Cane River but also expands upon it, providing a more comprehensive understanding of this significant period in Louisiana's history. It is a must-read for those interested in historical fiction and the lives of ordinary people during extraordinary times.

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Profile Image for Kimberly .
porango
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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This was yet another captivating story that was firmly rooted in her father's side of the family.

The tale seemed to unfold like a beautiful tapestry, weaving together the rich history and unique experiences of her paternal ancestors.

It was as if each character in the story had a distinct voice and personality, bringing the narrative to life in the most vivid way.

As she delved deeper into this family history, she discovered a world filled with love, sacrifice, and determination.

The story not only provided her with a sense of connection to her past but also served as a source of inspiration for her own life.

It made her realize the importance of family and the power of storytelling in preserving and passing down the values and traditions that had been cherished for generations.

Overall, this was a truly remarkable story that would surely be cherished and remembered for a long time to come.
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Nutella-oreos
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Please provide the article that needs to be rewritten and expanded so that I can assist you further.
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yaboiTheOtaku
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Interesting,

but not as good as Cane River.

This statement immediately piques our curiosity. What exactly is being compared here? Is it a book, a movie, a place? Without further context, it's difficult to say for sure.

However, we can assume that the thing being described as "interesting" has some redeeming qualities. It catches our attention and holds our interest to a certain extent.

But then, the comparison to Cane River is made. Cane River must be something truly special, something that stands out and exceeds expectations.

Perhaps Cane River has a more engaging story, more complex characters, or a more beautiful setting. Maybe it has a unique charm or a powerful message that really resonates with people.

Whatever the case may be, the fact that the other thing is not as good as Cane River implies that it falls short in some way. It may have its moments, but it doesn't quite measure up to the standard set by Cane River.

This makes us want to know more about both the "interesting" thing and Cane River. We want to discover what makes Cane River so great and what the other thing could do to improve.

In conclusion, while the "interesting" thing may have its appeal, it can't quite match the allure of Cane River.

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Profile Image for Kimberly .
mucilatos
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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What a family history - very impressing!

Our family history is like a precious treasure chest filled with countless fascinating stories and memories. It dates back many generations, with each ancestor leaving their unique mark.

There are tales of brave pioneers who ventured into unknown territories, facing hardships and challenges with unwavering determination. Their courage and perseverance laid the foundation for our family's growth and prosperity.

We also have stories of love and sacrifice, of how our ancestors supported and cared for one another through thick and thin. These bonds of family unity have been passed down through the years, strengthening our connection as a family.

As I explore our family history, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. I am proud of the achievements and contributions of our ancestors, and grateful for the legacy they have left us.

Our family history is a source of inspiration and motivation, reminding me of the importance of family, hard work, and perseverance. It is a story that I will cherish and pass on to future generations, ensuring that our family's traditions and values continue to thrive.
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