"All That She Carried" by Tiya Miles is a powerful and deeply moving book that tells the story of an African American woman named Rose who lived in the 19th century. Rose was a slave who was sold away from her family and forced to carry her infant daughter, Ashley, with her as she walked hundreds of miles to a new plantation. The book explores the physical and emotional burden that Rose carried, as well as the resilience and strength she displayed in the face of unimaginable hardship.
Miles does a wonderful job of bringing Rose and Ashley to life, painting a vivid picture of their struggles and triumphs. Through meticulous research and thoughtful analysis, she delves into the complexities of their relationship and the ways in which their experiences were shaped by the institution of slavery.
What sets this book apart is Miles' ability to give voice to the often overlooked stories of enslaved women and their families. She shows how Rose's journey was not just a physical one, but also a spiritual and emotional one, as she grappled with the trauma of separation and the desire for freedom.
Overall, "All That She Carried" is a beautifully written and thought-provoking book that sheds light on the experiences of enslaved women in the antebellum South. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit.