Homecoming

Library Journal

This book serves as a companion to author Gilbert's 1998 PBS documentary film of the same name, which she produced and directed. Coauthor Eli has edited two previous books about African Americans. Homecoming relates chronologically the history of black ownership and operation of farms in the southern United States following the Civil War up to present times. There is a particular emphasis on Gilbert's home state of Georgia. The story, one of determination, courage, and hard work, is overall not a happy one, as rural blacks more often than not had to deal with entrenched racism in addition to frequent economic hard times. The story moves smoothly from Reconstruction and its aftermath to World War I, the Depression and New Deal, World War II, the Civil Rights movement, and relations with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This is not a detailed history, but Gilbert adds a personal touch by describing the farm lives of several of her ancestors. Thirty black-and-white photographs accompany the text. Homecoming will be of interest to general readers and is also a good choice for African American and rural history collections.--William H. Wiese, Iowa State Univ. Lib., Ames Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.