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.

A Story only ReShonda Tate could tell

Ms Hattie’s life was truly a remarkable one. She was a trail blazer who endured so much in her relatively short time. ReShonda Tate told her story with dignity and respect. I was left feeling nothing but compassion and pride for this beautiful talented woman. I hope she knows we still speak her name and her legacy does indeed live on.

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.

Queen Hattie, At Last!

What an astounding life—so vibrantly portrayed in this biographical novel of Hattie McDaniel. While it was hard to learn of the battering she took from so many quarters, I can’t help but think that Hattie would be pleased to see her story so well told, to know that we understand so much more, at last, to see herself in all her glory, triumphant to the end. RaSHONDA Tate has written a stellar debut; I won’t be forgetting this story. Well done.

Narration is equally masterful. This is not to miss.

Wow! So much more to the story!

I always admired Hattie McDaniel as the first Black Oscar winner. But I loved hearing about her life. What an inspiration!

Hattie's big heart and perseverance!!

How the NAACP had it in for her. Also a lot of the black press failed to see the real person. She is a Queen in my eyes. Always was and will be!!!

Hattie’s Humanity

I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Queen of Sugar Hill! I have a new found respect for Hattie McDaniel and feel that she is proud of her story being told with such empathy and compassion. Bravo ReShonda Tate!!! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽