Life: Past Present Future

Inventing Victoria by Tonya Bolden

I'll teach them that it makes no never mind how a body starts out in life.
​It matters that you reach for something, elevate, exalt yourself.

Essie, daughter of a Savannah prostitute, spent her childhood nights sequestered in an attic above her mother' bedroom. At the age of fourteen Essie found work as a domestic, taught herself to read, and escaped a life of despair.

Dorcas Vashon, a frequent guest in Savannah, notices this servant and offers her the opportunity to move to Baltimore and start a new life. Essie changes her name to Victoria and commences a rigorous regime of training in the art of becoming a lady of refinement.  It is difficult, but she is inspired by the writings of Frederick Douglass.

If there is no struggle, there is no progress.

Our young heroine successfully blends into the Black aristocracy in Washington D. C. However, she is haunted by her past and fears that her former identity may compromise her social standing. Then she falls in love and must make a difficult choice.

Bolden's homage to literary themes adds richness and depth to the narrative. "Patience" and "Fortitude" are Victoria's mantras during her endless training sessions.  A phoenix rising from the ashes is painted on the fine porcelain and symbolizes metamorphosis.  George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion, and the Broadway musical My Fair Lady recount the story of an uneducated girl who is strictly tutored in the art of becoming a lady and succeeds in gaining acceptance into society.  

While there is a fairytale-like quality to Victoria’s transformation from impoverished domestic to woman of high society, Tonya Bolden doesn’t shy away from addressing the issues of poverty, inequality, and racism. Victoria's early years of want and misery form the foundation for her resolve to succeed. One the most poignant scenes is adult Victoria's realization that she probably misjudged her mother.

Looking for a Cinderella story with complex characters and an introduction to important social issues? Inventing Victoria is historical fiction that is equal parts enchanting, inspiring, and eye-opening

Bringing History to Life

This meticulously researched novel of Black aristocracy is a portrait of genteel life, refined manners, glittering receptions and, sumptuous meals. While some individuals fill their days with idle pursuits, others study and advance to positions of importance and influence. Victoria determines that she will devote herself to helping others.

​I must contribute! I must say thank you for this blessing of a wider world!

Bolden introduces some of the influential people living and working in our nation's capital in the 1880's.  Readers will want to learn more about these remarkable individuals.

Electronic copy provided by publisher.

​Pub date: January 8, 2019  Publisher: Bloomsbury YA  ISBN:  978-1681198071