Birthright

Birthright (1922) is a novel by T.S. Stribling that was praised by black and white critics and allowed him to move his career away from genre fiction and into the pressing historical and social questions of his time. It is a triumphant and tragic story of race in America and was adapted by pioneering director Oscar Micheaux into a 1924 silent film and a 1939 talkie.

Format: Hardback
Length: 188 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: West Margin Press

Birthright, a novel by T.S. Stribling, was originally serialized in Century Magazine and marked a significant departure from his previous works, which had avoided serious themes altogether. The novel received praise from both black and white critics upon its publication, allowing Stribling to move his career away from genre fiction and into the pressing historical and social questions of his time.

The protagonist of the story is Peter, a young man with a powerful vision. After graduating from Harvard, he returns to his hometown of Hookers Bend, Tennessee, where he gains a new understanding of the prejudices and laws that shaped his upbringing. Born into a family of mixed racial heritage, Peter has long understood the necessity of passing, which allows him to avoid violence and further his personal interests. However, upon returning to the South, he realizes that his experiences as a student have granted him an opportunity to change his community for the better.

Peter embarks on a mission to educate members of the local black and white communities, hoping to bridge the divide and promote understanding. However, his hope for the future soon turns to doubt and disillusionment as he faces resistance and hostility from those who oppose his efforts.

Birthright is a triumphant and tragic story of race in America, and it was adapted by pioneering director Oscar Micheaux into a 1924 silent film and a 1939 talkie of the same name. This edition of T.S. Stribling's Birthright is a classic of American literature reimagined for modern readers, with a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513135380