Queenie: Godmother of Harlem

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A graphic novel called "Queenie" is about the life of Harlem's legendary mobster, Stephanie Saint-Clair. Saint-Clair was born on a plantation in Martinique and came to the US in 1912. She became the ruthless queen of Harlem's mafia and a fierce defender of the Black community. She used her image to establish her power and wield as a weapon against her opponents. The novel explores themes of colonization, corruption, police violence, and racial identity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2023
Publisher: Abrams

Queenie: The Legend of Harlem's Mobster

Harlem's legendary mobster, Stephanie Saint-Clair, is the inspiration for a historical graphic novel titled Queenie. The novel follows the life of Saint-Clair, the notorious criminal who rose to fame in Harlem during the 1930s. Born on a plantation in the French colony of Martinique, Saint-Clair left the island in 1912 and arrived in the United States with the aspiration of starting a new life. In New York, she faced numerous challenges, including poverty and extreme racism, but her determination and resilience led her to become the ruthless queen of Harlem's mafia and a fierce advocate for the Black community.

Saint-Clair was a racketeer and a bootlegger who dedicated her wealth and compassion to the struggling masses of Harlem. She provided loans and paid debts to those around her, using her influence to help those in need. However, her success also made her a target for other mobsters, particularly Italian mobsters who sought to take control of her operations. In response, Saint-Clair launched a merciless war to protect her territory and her life.

The novel is meticulously crafted by author Aurelie Levy and illustrator Elizabeth Colombas, with attention to detail in both the story and the art. The narrative is tense, set against the backdrop of jazz and voodoo, capturing the essence of Saint-Clair's life and the tumultuous times in which she lived. Queenie explores themes of colonization, corruption, police violence, and racial identity, but it is ultimately a celebration of the genius of a woman who has been forgotten by history.

Through the character of Queenie, the novel sheds light on the complexities of a woman who defied societal expectations and rose to prominence in a male-dominated world. Saint-Clair's story is a testament to her strength, resilience, and determination, and her legacy continues to inspire and influence people today. Queenie is a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring the contributions of women who have made significant contributions to history.

Weight: 616g
Dimension: 184 x 223 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781419757747