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 My Interview With Dr. Yvonne Thornton March 27, 2008
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
In my introduction of Dr. Yvonne Thornton, for our interview about her memoir, The Ditchdigger's Daughters, I gave this synopsis of the book:
"It's the story of five girls born into a black family as World War II came to a close and America looked to its next challenge: the Civil Rights movement. Donald and Tass Thornton loved each other and they loved their children. That's it. He was a laborer and she was a housekeeper. But, as often is the case, what we do isn't always the true measure of what we are. They saw a country on the verge of change. Through astounding dedication and love, they wrung more hours than there are to be had out of a mere mortal's day and boosted their daughters to regional musical fame and to accomplishment and security via the highest achievements in education. They ended up with two doctors, a dentist, a court stenographer, a teacher, and a nurse. Yeah, I know that's six, but the plan only got bigger as this family pulled together and sent strong, successful woman out into the world, one-by-one, until the nest emptied."
And, indeed, that is what happens in The Ditchdigger's Daughters. But as we talked, I was no longer sure that was what the book is about.
This week in my own little corner of the world, I titled my work-in-progress, a novel that I hope to present to an agent soon. To do so without a title feels like the hallmark of a rank amateur, so I've been tearing my hair out in avoidance of such a fate. I kept milling over what happened in my story, but I realized that the `what' may not be as important as the `why'. This is how I came to my title and also how I came to the conclusion, by something she said during the interview, that Dr. Thorton's memoir is a parenting book. And it's about parenting with a goal in mind, about parenting in hard times, and about parenting with the conviction that education trumps all. The book's not been out of print in thirteen years and it's never been more relevant.
They had a hard time, and a long road to run, in getting this book published. It was said that it didn't have enough conflict. Rubbish. It's fascinating and enthralling and inspirational. And the Pulitzer Board thought so too, enough to consider it for the top prize in literary achievement in 1995.
Our interview can be heard at PsychJourney dot com.
The Ditchdiggers Daughters, Dr. Evon Thornton March 14, 2008
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
My wife and I saw Brian Lamb's interview with Dr. Thornton on CSpan and were inspired. I thoroughly enjoyed every word of the book and recommend it to all our friends. I felt like I was walking 4 feet off the floor after finishing this wonderful book. Good parenting does not depend on education, money, or anything else but determination to set good and easily understood rules and sticking to them.
The New Jersey ditch digger was a great man and a master parent. All parents of children need to read this book and follow its precepts. It is fun to read so don't worry about being bored.
Education is one key, but persistence is the master December 11, 2007
This was a great read. I heard about this book on a book panel hosted in the Harlem book fair this past summer. The story of a man who wanted all of his daughters to become doctors was definitely off the chart, but that doesn't mean it shouldn't be tried. This author presented her story in a matter that any family can relate to especially when it comes to hardships. I enjoyed the spiritual meaning in this story, especially knowing that God is always there no matter how hard the task. The author was also impartial, she able to show members of her family without having any negative or positive extremes. She just showed them as they are with a little humor. Overall, this was a great read that showed that Black Americans paved the way for many people especially immigrants of different ethnic backgrounds coming into this country.
And the Thornton Sisters were a great band! April 11, 2007
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
This is a wonderful book about a wonderfully talented group of women. I had the pleasure of seeing The Thornton Sisters at Cornell University many, many years ago. I was completely blown away by their talent & stage presence. I am also a former road musician, and these women made a gigantic impression on me. Knowing their story makes it even more impressive! Read this book!
The DitchDiggers Daughter July 1, 2006
This book was great the movie was awesome they need to put it on vhs and dvd. must read book to who ever didnt read this book u need to read it its very good.
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