Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez
Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez is a powerful and haunting historical novel inspired by true events. Set in post–Civil War America, the story follows formerly enslaved women sent west to the frontier town of “Happy Land,” under a controversial government program designed to repopulate the area. With sharp prose and deep compassion, Perkins-Valdez explores themes of freedom, resilience, motherhood, and what it means to claim your place in a land that promises opportunity but delivers hardship.
Gripping, moving, and rooted in little-known history, this novel brings a vital piece of American heritage to light.
Book Bundle
Perfect for fans of The Water Dancer, The Color Purple, and Homegoing essential for historical fiction lovers who seek emotional depth and truth.
Why Happy Land is a Must-Read:
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Based on True Events: Inspired by a real Reconstruction-era settlement program.
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Empowering Narratives: Focuses on Black women’s strength and survival.
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Rich Historical Detail: Brings 19th-century America vividly to life.
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Critically Acclaimed Author: From the author of Wench and Balm.
Memorable Quote (from the book)
"We were promised freedom, but we had to build it with our own hands."
Translation (Sinhala):
"අපට නිදහස පොරොන්දු වුණා, නමුත් ඒක අපේම අතින් ගොඩනඟන්න වුණා."
Translation (Tamil):
"எங்களுக்கு சுதந்திரம் வாக்களிக்கப்பட்டது, ஆனால் அதை நாங்கள் எங்கள் கைகளால் உருவாக்க வேண்டியது ஏற்பட்டது."
Availability at Booxworm.lk
You can order Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez online from Booxworm.lk or visit our Colombo store to discover this stirring, unforgettable tale of courage, struggle, and hope.
Physical Store Location:
180, W.A. Silva Mawatha, Wellawatte, Colombo 06, Sri Lanka
+94 768 46 2551
Visit: www.booxworm.lk
About the Book
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Title: Happy Land
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Author: Dolen Perkins-Valdez
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ISBN: 9781035028787
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Publisher: St. Martin’s Press / Macmillan
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Published Year: 2024
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Number of Pages: ~352 Pages (Paperpack)
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Genre: Historical Fiction / African American Literature / Women’s Fiction
