Terry McMillan
Terry McMillan is an American author known for her works exploring African-American female identity and experiences. She gained fame with her novel 'Waiting to Exhale' and has written several bestsellers.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Waiting to Exhale
This novel follows the lives of four African-American women living in Phoenix, Arizona, each of whom is "holding their breath" as they navigate their personal and professional lives. The women are all in their mid-thirties, successful, and single, struggling to find love in a world that seems to offer few prospects. Through their friendship, they support each other and learn to let go of their pasts, "exhale", and move forward.
The 2694th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. How Stella Got Her Groove Back
In this vibrant and uplifting tale, a successful but overworked single mother embarks on a much-needed vacation to Jamaica, where she unexpectedly finds romance with a charming, much younger man. As she navigates the complexities of this new relationship, she begins to rediscover her own passions and zest for life, ultimately learning to balance love, career, and personal fulfillment. This journey of self-discovery and empowerment highlights the importance of taking risks and embracing change to reclaim one's happiness and vitality.
The 8670th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
3. Disappearing Acts
"Disappearing Acts" is a poignant narrative that delves into the complexities of a modern relationship, set against the backdrop of Brooklyn, New York. The story follows the lives of two African-American protagonists—a struggling construction worker and an ambitious music teacher—as they navigate the turbulent waters of love, ambition, and societal expectations. Their romance is marked by raw honesty and vulnerability, as they confront personal demons, financial hardships, and the challenges of an interracial relationship. The novel offers a gritty, realistic exploration of love and the transformative power of self-discovery and resilience in the face of adversity.
The 12083rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
4. Mama
This novel delves into the life of an African American family through the eyes of a hardworking mother striving to provide for her children in the face of adversity. With a mix of humor and grit, the matriarch confronts the challenges of raising her children in an environment fraught with economic hardship, addiction, and tumultuous relationships. As she navigates the complexities of love, sacrifice, and resilience, the narrative presents a poignant exploration of the bonds that hold a family together and the personal growth that often comes from life's most trying circumstances.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
5. A Day Late And A Dollar Short
Set against the backdrop of a vibrant Las Vegas, this poignant narrative delves into the complexities of family dynamics through the lens of the Price family. At the heart of the story is Viola, the matriarch, whose health crisis becomes a catalyst for her estranged children to confront their own personal struggles and fractured relationships. As secrets unravel and past grievances resurface, each family member embarks on a journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Through humor and heartfelt moments, the story explores themes of resilience, love, and the enduring bonds that hold a family together despite life's challenges.
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