Wandering in Strange Lands: A Daughter of the Great Migration Reclaims Her Roots

Dive deep into American history and personal discovery with Morgan Jerkins' critically acclaimed "Wandering in Strange Lands: A Daughter of the Great Migration Reclaims Her Roots," now available in paperback with a new afterword by the author. Named one of TIME's 100 Must-Read Books of 2020 and a Good Housekeeping Best Book of the Year, Jerkins' work is a poignant exploration of identity, displacement, and the enduring legacy of the Great Migration. Lauded as "one of the smartest young writers of her generation" by Book Riot, Jerkins embarks on a powerful journey to connect with her ancestral past, tracing the routes of her family and millions of other Black Americans who left the Jim Crow South in search of a better life. Between 1916 and 1970, a seismic shift occurred as six million Black individuals migrated from the rural South to the urban centers of the North, West, and Midwest. This transformative event, known as the Great Migration, reshaped the cultural and economic landscape of America. However, Jerkins argues that this mass movement also resulted in a profound disconnection from ancestral lands, traditions, and a vital sense of self. "Wandering in Strange Lands" is Jerkins' deeply personal quest to understand this complex legacy. More than just a historical account, this book is an intimate and affecting narrative. Jerkins meticulously retraces her ancestors' footsteps, traveling from Georgia and South Carolina to Louisiana, Oklahoma, and California. Through rigorous research, including interviews, photographs, and extensive transcriptions of oral histories, she pieces together the fragmented stories of her family, tracing them back over 300 years. By weaving together these personal narratives with the broader experiences of Black communities encountered along the way, Jerkins illuminates the rich tapestry of Black culture, customs, and collective memory that forms the very backbone of American history. Jerkins doesn't shy away from the painful realities of displacement, disenfranchisement, and disrespect that have plagued Black Americans for generations. She confronts the historical injustices and explores the enduring impact of these traumas on individuals, families, and communities. However, "Wandering in Strange Lands" is also a testament to the resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit of those who persevered in the face of adversity. "Wandering in Strange Lands" is not only a valuable historical study but also a deeply moving personal memoir. Jerkins' sharp intellect, unwavering curiosity, and unflinching honesty shine through every page. She offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the past while grappling with the complexities of identity in the present. This book is essential reading for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of American history, the Black experience, and the enduring power of family and heritage. It's a must-have for readers interested in history, African American studies, social justice, and personal journeys of self-discovery. Published by Harper Perennial, this paperback edition offers an accessible and engaging way to explore these vital themes. Don't miss this opportunity to experience Morgan Jerkins' compelling exploration of roots, identity, and the ongoing search for belonging in America.