Quilt of Souls: A Memoir”
by Phyllis Biffle Elmore is a captivating journey through generations, seamlessly blending family history with the rich tradition of African American quilting. With a Kindle Edition format, the book has received high praise, boasting an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars on Amazon and a 4.6 rating on Goodreads.
At the tender age of four, Phyllis Biffle Elmore’s life takes an unexpected turn when she is relocated from the bustling streets of Detroit to her grandmother Lula Horn’s home in rural Alabama. The narrative unfolds through the lens of Grandma Lula’s enchanting “Quilts of Souls,” which serve not only as artistic expressions but also as poignant storytellers of the lives of extraordinary Black women, spanning from pre to post-Civil War eras. The memoir delves into untold stories of enslaved individuals, laundresses, storytellers, healers, and quilters whose legacies come to life through the stitches of Grandma Lula’s quilts.
“Quilt of Souls” has received acclaim for its beautifully written prose and compelling storytelling. Renowned author Jessica B. Harris hails it as a powerful and poignant read, likening Phyllis Biffle Elmore’s narrative to the masterpieces created by the women of Gee’s Bend, Alabama. Best-selling author Omar Tyree commends the book as a fascinating exploration of how storytellers are born and made, applauding its ability to retell family history, culture, loves, losses, victories, and tragedies.
Definitely a good read.