For February 2022, Jenna Bush Hager picked "Black Cake" by Charmaine Wilkerson as the Read With Jenna book club pick.
The story begins with a death. In her passing, Eleanor Bennett leaves her two children a lengthy audio recording and a slice of black cake made with their family’s secret recipe. With that, estranged siblings Byron and Benny untangle a web of mysteries and buried family secrets. As long-hidden truths come to light, they grapple with the impact of their mother's choices.
If you loved this book, the author recommends several reads for book club members to try next.
"The Vanishing Half," by Britt Bennett
“This story is rooted in an intriguing scenario, an unusual pair of sisters, and what their lives say about race and family and love in America," Wilkerson said.
"Ask Again, Yes," by Mary Beth Keane
“This is a multi-generational tale that explores how two families move forward from the tragedy that connects them," Wilkerson said.
"What’s Mine and Yours," by Naima Coster
“This story revolves around two mothers who seem very different from one another but who are similar in their determination to take care of and protect their children," Wilkerson said of this March 2021 Read With Jenna pick. "It is a moving exploration of class, motherhood and race.”
"Small Island," by Andrea Levy
“It is a deeply moving and sometimes funny story about a couple from Jamaica who are living in post-war London," Wilkerson said. "This is one of the books I refer to at the end of my own book because it delves into a what was a lesser-known aspect of British and Caribbean life.”
"The Joy Luck Club," by Amy Tan
Wilkerson said this story of mothers and daughters aiming to understand one another across generations and cultures is one of her all-time favorites.
For more stories like this, check out:
- Jenna Bush Hager picks debut novel about 'family and legacy' for February 2022
- Jenna Bush Hager picks 'captivating' dystopian drama for January 2022
- 8 books to read after 'The School for Good Mothers' by Jessamine Chan
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