By Qinshu Zou
“Wench: A Novel” by Dolen Perkins-Valdez explores a unique aspect of American history by focusing on the relationships between enslaved Black women and their white masters. Set in the 1850s, the novel centers on a group of enslaved women who accompany their masters to a summer resort in Ohio, a free state. While the book addresses many themes, the topic of diversity emerges through the distinct backgrounds, personalities, and dreams of these women.
According to Kima Jones, the founder of the publishing company Jack Jones Literary Arts: “There needs to be more women of color in publishing, in positions of power, period.”1 The publishing industry has historically lacked representation of Black authors and stories that highlight the Black experience. “Wench” addresses this gap by giving voice to a group of women whose stories are often overlooked or minimized. The novel’s focus on the complex relationships between these women and their white masters sheds light on a unique aspect of American history. By exploring these dynamics, the book encourages readers to think critically about power, identity, and resilience.
Dolen Perkins-Valdez’s work contributes to a more inclusive literary landscape, where stories from diverse backgrounds are valued and shared. The success of “Wench” demonstrates that there is a strong demand for books that reflect a wide range of experiences. This success helps pave the way for more authors from under-represented groups to tell their stories.
Also, “Wench” serves as an educational tool, allowing readers to learn about a different perspective on history. By expanding the kinds of stories that are published, the industry can promote a broader understanding of human experiences, fostering empathy and connection among readers.
Therefore, “Wench: A Novel” plays an important role in promoting diversity in the publishing industry. It challenges the traditional narratives by bringing forward stories that are often left untold, enriching the literary world with a more inclusive and representative range of voices.
Reference:
Ho, Jean. (2016) Diversity In Book Publishing Isn’t Just About Writers – Marketing Matters, Too. https://www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2016/08/09/483875698/diversity-in-book-publishing-isnt-just-about-writers-marketing-matters-too