Citizens Creek

A Novel

By: Lalita Tademy

Narrated by: Bahni Turpin, J. D. Jackson

The New York Times best-selling author of the Oprah Book Club Pick Cane River brings us the evocative story of a once-enslaved man who buys his freedom after serving as a translator during the American Indian Wars, and his granddaughter, who sustains his legacy of courage.

Cow Tom, born into slavery in Alabama in 1810 and sold to a Creek Indian chief before his 10th birthday, possessed an extraordinary gift: the ability to master languages. As the new country developed westward, and Indians, settlers, and blacks came into constant contact, Cow Tom became a key translator for his Creek master and was hired out to US military generals. His talent earned him money - but would it also grant him freedom? And what would become of him and his family in the aftermath of the Civil War and the Indian Removal westward?

Cow Tom's legacy lives on - especially in the courageous spirit of his granddaughter Rose. She rises to leadership of the family as they struggle against political and societal hostility intent on keeping blacks and Indians oppressed. But through it all, her grandfather's indelible mark of courage inspires her - in mind, in spirit, and in a family legacy that never dies.

Written in two parts portraying the parallel lives of Cow Tom and Rose, Citizens Creek is a beautifully rendered novel that takes the listener deep into a little known chapter of American history. It is a breathtaking tale of identity, community, family - and above all, the power of an individual's will to make a difference.

©2014 Lalita Tademy (P)2014 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Critic reviews

"JD Jackson, telling Tom's story, and Bahni Turpin, relating Rose's, both deliver exquisite performances that immerse the listener in the characters. Jackson's careful diction adds emotional power to his portrayal of Cow Tom. Turpin paces Rose's story in a way that highlights the struggles and triumphs of an amazing, resilient family." ( AudioFile)

Outstanding storytelling!

An epic generational tale of determination, struggle, strength and family. Cow Tom and Rose's stories resonated with me and I'm so glad to know them. I expected a rousing western and got so much more - insight into a society and people I knew very little about. Bravo!

Enthralling!

I couldn't put it down! A beautiful story with the wonderful ending with the author!

LOVED!!!!

I loved everything about this book. I love her writing. Since her Cane River I've been a fan. She goes in to so much detail. It's like you can smell and feel where the characters are.

exciting & informative

I love books about history. especially African American, native American history. I couldn't stop listening.

It was a very deep and informative book.

Yes, this book met my expectations. I knew little of the complexity of the Black and Indian struggle. don’t think the writing style took anything away from Lalita Tademy made Cow Tom’s story have the weight needed to explain the beginnings and the desire to strive ahead and succeed against all odds. The fact that he knew so many languages and was such a caring person brought value to me. Lalita really had me at the edge of my chair after Rose’s story began, maybe because I like history from a woman’s perspective – the book really came alive in Part 2 and 3.

Another wonderful part our our history restored.

Another wonderful part of our history brilliantly told, restored and shared. Thank you Lalita Tademy.

Never disappointed with Lalita's books

What did you love best about Citizens Creek?

I had never read a book with a mix of slavery from both the African and Native American perspective. It was very interesting.

What other book might you compare Citizens Creek to and why?

Her other books...

Which scene was your favorite?

Too many to name

great story and narration!

Loved it! I highly recommend this book. Awsome story, stayed up late 'cause I had to keep going!

this author never disappoints

phenomenal and true. loved every moment. felt empowered after listening. such strength and resilience. Thanks

A must read!

Rose and family are remarkable. Get to know them. Enjoy their strength and determination to survive and prosper.