Ida, in Love and in Trouble

June 17, 2024
Chambers (Finish the Fight) crafts a fictionalized account of the professional and romantic life of civil rights figure Ida B. Wells in this expansive historical novel. As the daughter of formerly enslaved people who died when she was a child, teenage Ida is determined to overcome the adversities she faces as a Black woman in America to make something of herself and her family name (“If fear was insistent on shackling itself to her side, then it better be prepared to go all the places Ida intended to go”). Starting with Ida’s career as a teacher in Memphis, where she also wrote articles about race relations for Black-owned newspapers, Chambers chronicles Ida’s interpersonal developments, such as the years in which she kept up correspondence with several suitors. Selections from protagonist Ida’s columns, letters to and from romantic prospects, and entries from her diary are interspersed throughout the narrative, which reads more like a biography than a youthful imagining of the subject’s life. Still, the creator’s thorough research will allow readers to uncover new insight into the figure’s experience navigating societal standards for women—especially Black women—in the late 19th century. Ages 14–up. Agent: Kim Witherspoon, InkWell Management.

Starred review from July 1, 2024
A fictionalized account of a pivotal decade in the life of pioneering journalist and suffragist Ida B. Wells, focusing on her burgeoning career and active love life. Born in Mississippi, the oldest in a large family, Wells lost her parents to yellow fever. She began her career as a schoolteacher in Memphis, Tennessee, a coveted position for a woman at the time. Her people were unknown to the Black elite of the Upper Tenth, but Wells, an ardent admirer of arts and literature, found community at the Memphis Lyceum literary salon and was appointed editor of its literary journal. As her editorials appeared in Black weeklies in other cities, she built a reputation for her writing. She had no shortage of attention from interested gentlemen near and far, but Wells remained keenly aware of the domestic societal pressures on women. Chambers offers a riveting account of the early-adult years of a revolutionary journalist whose work was "pinned on [her] heart, more permanently than any suitor ever could be." The book, which spans the years 1885-1895, maintains historical continuity and doesn't shy away from (or overdramatize) Wells' own documented introspection about her love life. The lively writing invites readers on a riveting journey through Wells' rise to becoming one of the most important journalists in a country that was in constant turmoil and transition. A vivid, timely, and immersive introduction to an activist and her enduring legacy. (author's note, sources, bibliography) (Historical fiction. 13-18)

COPYRIGHT(2024) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

August 1, 2024

Gr 7-10-This novel opens with the main character, a Black woman, in an opera house, sitting where she is legally required to because of her race. When the lights dim, she moves forward, knowing she will have a better view and has little worry of being caught. This carefully crafted opening scene allows readers to know who Ida B. Wells is. It sets the stage for the rest of the novel; Ida is a woman who seeks to enjoy life while pushing the boundaries of what was allowed for members of her race and gender in the 1880s. Readers see her as both a young woman trying to find love and happiness and as a political advocate for persons of color and women. Chambers gives readers a glimpse into what these goals cost Ida, as well as the gifts it granted her. The novel also reminds readers that Wells was a woman, not just a political advocacy hero. It shares her love of literature and performance and gives insight into her interest in what is deemed "womanly concerns," most specifically nice clothing and shopping. The inclusion of these facets gives readers an understanding of Wells as a whole person. There is a bit of jumping in time and omittance of details that create some gaps, which could be challenging for readers who are not familiar with the time period or Wells. This novel's text is in keeping with the vocabulary of the time; without a glossary or in-text context, it could be challenging for some teens. VERDICT A recommended read for enthusiasts of coming-of-age novels and historical fiction, especially those of real people overcoming struggles and strife.-Jennifer Seebauer

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from September 15, 2024
Grades 9-12 *Starred Review* Before becoming a legend, Ida B. Wells was a young, ambitious woman searching for love and navigating life on her own. With recently deceased parents and no relatives nearby, Ida chooses to make the best of her situation in Memphis by being an educator and experiencing the Beale Street arts scene. Like many young people, Ida comforts her heart by writing romantic letters to suitors, hoping to find someone who will appreciate her lively spirit. Earning the position of editor of the Evening Star newspaper, Ida is determined to cover important issues, such as the mistreatment of the Black community. After the lynching of her friend Tommie and his colleagues, Ida goes on a crusade to publicize the injustice. Each new struggle and criticism that is thrown her way slowly strengthens the tenacity of the icon. Magazine executive, editor, and renowned author of Mama's Girl, Chambers offers an historical fiction adaptation of the life of civil rights activist that beautifully imagines what her time as a young adult was like. Chambers' inclusion of Ida's correspondence sheds light on Wells' gumption, especially in regards to exposing America's "system of violence." Readers will be in awe reading about Wells' progressive tendencies, which did not result in brutality. A powerful reminder that the pen will always be mightier than the sword.

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