The Queen of Sugar Hill

A Novel of Hattie McDaniel

By: ReShonda Tate

Narrated by: Lynnette R. Freeman

Length: 15 hrs and 28 mins

Publisher's summary

As seen on The TODAY Show!

Bestselling author ReShonda Tate presents a fascinating fictional portrait of Hattie McDaniel, one of Hollywood’s most prolific but woefully underappreciated stars—and the first Black person ever to win an Oscar for her role as Mammy in the critically acclaimed classic film Gone With the Wind.

It was supposed to be the highlight of her career, the pinnacle for which she’d worked all her life. And as Hattie McDaniel took the stage in 1940 to claim an honor that would make her the first African-American woman to win an Academy Award, she tearfully took her place in history. Between personal triumphs and tragedies, heartbreaking losses, and severe setbacks, this historic night of winning best supporting actress for her role as the sassy Mammy in the controversial movie Gone With the Wind was going to be life-changing. Or so she thought.

Months after winning the award, not only did the Oscar curse set in where Hattie couldn’t find work, but she found herself thrust in the middle of two worlds—Black and White—and not being welcomed in either. Whites only saw her as Mammy and Blacks detested the demeaning portrayal. As the NAACP waged an all-out war against Hattie and actors like her, the emotionally conflicted actor found herself struggling daily.

Through it all, Hattie continued her fight to pave a path for other Negro actors, while focusing on war efforts, fighting housing discrimination, and navigating four failed marriages. Luckily, she had a core group of friends to help her out—from Clark Gable to Louise Beavers to Ruby Berkley Goodwin and Dorothy Dandridge.

The Queen of Sugar Hill brings to life the powerful story of one woman who was driven by many passions—ambition, love, sex, family, friendship, and equality. In re-creating Hattie’s story, ReShonda Tate delivers an unforgettable novel of resilience, dedication, and determination—about what it takes to achieve your dreams—even when everything—and everyone—is against you.

©2024 ReShonda Tate (P)2024 HarperCollins Publishers

The Story I Never Knew

The author and Narrator has done an amazing job capturing the life of Hattie McDaniels. The story held my attention, and the author’s creativity is absolutely incredible! I truly appreciate her work and extensive research to create this masterpiece. Another reminder of what my ancestors endured to allow the freedoms I have today. This story fills my heart with gratitude.

Brilliant

This historical fiction novel was educational as well as entertaining. I was constantly googling information. I experienced a full range of emotions. One scene I would be crying, then laughing and fighting mad😂. I highly recommend this read. Thank you ReShonda for telling Hattie's story.

Great narration and narrative

Excellent retelling of an amazing woman who lived in a difficult time—great insights into her life.

Historical Interest

I enjoyed learning about Hattie McDaniel, and her life of trailblazing! Ms. Hattie was a woman with a lot of fight in her. She persevered through multiple trials and fought until the end.

Amazing Story!

I felt like I was there during some of the scenes. This story was told with vivid details. The characters really came to life with detailed descriptions.

A Steady Stream Cuts Through Granite

At a time when most Black women could only be maids, she was berated by her own including the NAACP, for playing one - the only film role she was ever repeatedly offered - and yet she advanced the Black voice & won major victories.

Great Story about a Great Woman

while the story was embellished it was well told and captured the time with its morays well.

Excellent writing

I truly enjoyed this read, thank you!
Your ability to transcend the reader throughout the story was delightful. IMAGERY was excellent!

Phenomenal

I am speechless. How do you put into words what this work of fiction means? I have read several books by ReShonda Tate and I must say this is her best work yet. Queen of Sugar Hill is completely different from what I’m used to reading from this author and it is definitely next level.

ReShonda took us on a much needed journey into the life of Hattie McDaniel. Until this book I never really thought about what Ms. McDaniel would have gone through as a black actor and as a woman. This telling of her story was tastefully done and I highly recommend it.

Loved it

I hope this gets to go out in many forms so people can experience it in many ways. Her story shouldn't be forgotten any longer!