![]() ![]() ![]() This is the original 1946 cover of “The Street.” Pink covers are frowned upon now by women writers who are troubled by being branded as “chick lit” and therefore not taken seriously. ![]() In 1946, the publication of a novel by a black woman was a landmark event, writes contemporary novelist Tayari Jones, and its feminine cover cemented Petry’s place in an industry where men - and some white women - had historically dominated.īelow, Jones examines some of these images, from a 1954 edition depicting main character Lutie Johnson as a temptress while promising “violence” and “sin,” to the most recent edition, which, Jones says, puts Petry’s name in a font that “recognizes the significance of her contribution.” But over the years, not all of its covers conveyed the complex themes of race and class. Learn more about the book club here.Īnn Petry’s “The Street” was the first novel by a black woman to sell more than a million copies. Become a member of the Now Read This book club by joining our Facebook group, or by signing up to our newsletter. ![]() Our May 2020 pick for the PBS NewsHour-New York Times book club is Ann Petry’s “The Street,” chosen by novelist Tayari Jones. ![]()
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