American Blues: A Novel

by the Rev. Mary Korte
Christ Episcopal Church, Rolla

As part of Dismantling Racism and my continuing education (begun some decades ago) I commend to you "American Blues: A Novel," by Sister Priest Polly Hamilton Hilsabeck. I shared the bookmarks at Christ Church, Rolla and our Jane Dey Convocation in May.

I read this prior to my trip to the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee this summer. She had me from the very first page. She describes the story of Reverend Lily and Journalist Lucius as they weave a tapestry of life events together with the thread and fabric of the males-only priesthood she is called to, and the press coverage of Black Church burnings to include her hometown.

It is not an easy ready but it is a worthwhile one, delving into race, gender, violence, and white supremacy.

Learn more about "American Blues."