Author: Lorraine Hansberry
Publisher & Date: Vintage, 29 Nov 2004
Page Count: 151 pages
ISBN: 978-0679755333
Age/Reading Level: 14 & up/Grades 9 & above
Representation:
Other Information:
Book Information
A powerful drama, focusing on a small family of an African American home in Chicago of the 1950s, waiting for the life insurance of $ 10,000 after the father’s death. There are different dreams for each family member how money should be spent: Mama wants to buy a house to fulfill her late husband’s dream, Walter Lee invests in liquor shop to get financial freedom Expected to do, Benetta wants to use it for a medical school, and Ruth is concerned about the stability of the family. As they face racial bias and their personal aspirations, stress increases, a white neighborhood ends an option to pursue a new house, symbolizes their flexibility and despite those obstacles of better future Hope. This drama examines the topics of race, identity and discovery of American dreams.
Challenges & Bans
This book has been challenged for its depictions of the racial prejudice, economic hardships, and inequalities of the time. People also object to the inclusion of racial slurs and discussion of abortion
Specific Challenges*:
Awards & Accolades
Pulitzer Prize, New York Drama Critic’s Circle Award for Best Play (1959)
