Crowning Glory
"I got my start by giving myself a start." - Madame C.J. Walker
She was born Sarah Breedlove in 1867 to parents who had been enslaved. Orphaned by seven, married by fourteen, widowed by twenty. A washerwoman earning barely a dollar a day-yet destined to become the first self-made female millionaire in American history. Her name would become a household legend: Madame C.J. Walker.
In Crowning Glory, author Lucille Devereaux delivers a sweeping, emotionally resonant work of historical fiction that vividly reimagines the real-life journey of Madame Walker-from her humble beginnings in the Jim Crow South to the pinnacle of success as a beauty industry pioneer, activist, and icon of Black excellence.
Set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this richly detailed narrative explores the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of a woman who defied every barrier in her path. Devereaux paints an intimate portrait of a dreamer and doer-of a mother, businesswoman, and visionary who refused to be defined by her circumstances.
Through painstaking research and inspired imagination, Crowning Glory not only captures the milestones of Walker's life-her innovative hair care line, the founding of the Madam C.J. Walker Manufacturing Company, her bold philanthropy, and her mentorship of thousands of African American women-but also the emotional journey behind the headlines: the personal losses, the quiet doubts, the soaring ambition, and the unwavering commitment to community.
Readers will walk alongside Sarah as she endures racism, sexism, and poverty-and watch her rise with grace, grit, and unapologetic brilliance. Her journey is not just a business success story-it is a testament to the power of believing in oneself, lifting others, and leaving a legacy.
Crowning Glory is a celebration of Black womanhood, beauty, and enterprise. It is also a mirror held up to today's readers, reflecting the continued relevance of Madame Walker's message: that greatness can be achieved, not despite adversity, but because of it.
Perfect for fans of:
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
Self Made (Netflix)
Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
American Daughters by Piper Huguley
Themes Explored:
✔ Black history and identity
✔ Women's entrepreneurship
✔ Cultural pride and beauty
✔ Overcoming adversity
✔ Motherhood and mentorship
✔ The rise of Black-owned businesses
✔ Social justice and legacy-building
What Readers Will Love:
A compelling, character-driven story rooted in truth
Vivid settings from Delta cotton fields to Harlem parlors
A fierce and complex heroine who inspires at every turn
Emotional depth, historical accuracy, and cinematic storytelling
A powerful message of hope, self-worth, and empowerment
Whether you're discovering Madame C.J. Walker for the first time or returning to her legacy with new perspective, Crowning Glory is a deeply moving tribute to one of the most remarkable women in American history. Lucille Devereaux brings her back to life on the page-bold, brilliant, and more relevant than ever.
This is not just a story from the past.
This is a story for every woman who's ever dared to dream.
Customer Reviews
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