Author James McBride takes home National Book Award
Last night, James McBride won the National Book Award for his novel, The Good Lord Bird. This novel is the story of a young boy slave, who is mistaken for a little girl named Little Onion, who becomes involved in John Brown’s abolitionist movement.
A visible shocked McBride accepted the fiction prize. Considered the clear underdog, he said he wouldn’t have minded if any of the other finalist won because they “are all fine writers.”
“But,” he added with a grin, “it sure is nice to get it.”
McBride noted in his speech that his book’s young slave narrator, Little Onion, was the friend he leaned on during the death of his mother and the dissolution of his marriage.
McBride, a best-selling author, has also worked with Spike Lee on the films, The Miracle at St. Anna and Red Hook Summer. He is probably best known for his bestseller, The Color of Water.
Congratulations to James McBride on his achievement!
Thoughts on this book? On McBride’s award?
Sound off below!
