"Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" is a 1976 novel by Mildred D. Taylor, set in Mississippi during the Great Depression. The novel tells the story of the Logan family, who are African American sharecroppers struggling to survive and keep their land in a time when racism and discrimination are rampant.
The main character of the novel is Cassie Logan, a young girl who is the narrator and protagonist of the story. Cassie's family consists of her parents, Papa and Mama; her three older brothers, Stacey, Christopher-John, and Little Man; and her grandfather, Granny. The Logans live on a small farm that has been in the family for generations, but they are constantly facing challenges and hardships as a result of their race.
One of the main themes of the novel is the importance of education and the struggle to get an education as an African American in this time period. Cassie and her brothers are constantly facing obstacles in their pursuit of education, including being turned away from white schools and having to travel long distances to attend their own school. Despite these challenges, Cassie and her family are determined to get an education and use it to better their circumstances and fight against the injustices they face.
Another major theme in the novel is the importance of family and community. The Logans are a close-knit family and they rely on each other and their neighbors for support and help. They also stand up for each other and fight against the racism and discrimination they encounter. This is exemplified in the character of Big Ma, who is a strong and determined woman who fights to protect her family and their land.
Throughout the novel, Cassie and her family face numerous challenges and injustices, including being falsely accused of a crime, being subjected to violence and intimidation, and losing their land. However, despite these challenges, they remain strong and united, and they continue to fight for what they believe in.
In conclusion, "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" is a powerful and poignant story about the struggles and challenges faced by African Americans during the Great Depression. It highlights the importance of education, family, and community in the face of adversity, and the strength and resilience of the human spirit.