Readers in Allamakee County are joining tens of thousands of booklovers nationwide by participating in the annual Together We Read US digital book club. From March 13-27, Robey Memorial Libary patrons can read bestselling author ReShonda Tate’s “The Queen of Sugar Hill” as an ebook and audiobook for free. This powerful novel presents a fascinating fictional portrait of Hattie McDaniel, one of Hollywood's most prolific but woefully underappreciated stars—and the first Black person ever to win an Oscar for her role in the critically acclaimed classic film Gone with the Wind. Readers can access the digital book with no waitlists or holds by downloading the Libby app. They may also participate in an online discussion with other readers throughout the country.
The Together We Read US digital book club connects readers through thousands of U.S. public libraries with the same ebook for two weeks and only requires a Robey Memorial Libary card to get started. During the program, readers can participate in engaging online discussions about the via the Robey Memorial Library Online Book Club Facebook Group. This free program is facilitated by the library and OverDrive, the leading digital reading platform for ebooks, audiobooks and magazines and creator of the award-winning Libby app.
Hattie McDaniel made history in 1940 as the first African-American woman to win an Academy Award for her role in “Gone With the Wind”, believing it would be a turning point in her career. Instead, she faced rejection from both Hollywood and the Black community—trapped between worlds, unable to find work, and criticized for her portrayal of Mammy. As the NAACP fought against the stereotypes she embodied, Hattie struggled to balance personal hardships, professional obstacles, and a fierce desire to create opportunities for Black actors.
“The Queen of Sugar Hill” by ReShonda Tate brings Hattie’s powerful story to life, revealing her resilience in the face of adversity. From her battles against discrimination to her work supporting the war effort and fighting for housing rights, Hattie remained a trailblazer determined to make a difference. This unforgettable novel explores her ambition, friendships, heartbreaks, and the sacrifices she made to pursue her dreams—even when the world was against her.
“The Queen of Sugar Hill” is published as an ebook by HarperCollins and audiobook by William Morrow Paperbacks. The digital book can be borrowed from participating U.S. public libraries and colleges during Together We Read US between March 13-27. The ebook and audiobook can be read on all major computers and devices, including iPhone®, iPad®, Android™ phones and tablets and Chromebook™ without waitlists or holds. Through Libby, readers can also “send to Kindle®” [U.S. libraries only]. The title will automatically expire at the end of the lending period, and there are no late fees.
Download Libby or visit https://libbyapp.com to get started. For more information about Together We Read, visit https://togetherweread.com/us/.
About OverDrive
OverDrive is a mission-based company that supports libraries and schools worldwide. Named a Certified B Corp in 2017, OverDrive serves more than 92,000 libraries and schools in 115 countries with the industry’s largest digital catalog of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, video and other content. OverDrive empowers libraries and schools by expanding access for all through tireless industry advocacy and consistent innovation. Award-winning apps and services include the Libby library reading app, the student reading app Kanopy, the leading video streaming app for libraries and colleges, and TeachingBooks, which offers one of the largest catalogs of supplemental materials that enhance literacy outcomes. Founded in 1986, OverDrive is based in Cleveland, Ohio USA. www.overdrive.com