Today I am thrilled to be joined by Piper Huguley, the author of one of my favorite books of this year, “By Her Own Design: a novel of Anne Lowe, Fashion Designer to the Social Register.” Piper and I had a great time talking about “Douglass’ Women” by Jewell Parker Rhodes, a fascinating historical retelling of Frederick Douglass through the eyes of the women who loved him – his wife of 44 years and his mistress of 30 years. Y’all – they shared a house! 😳 Piper calls this story “Historical Tea.” We also talked about why she thinks historical fiction gets butts into chairs of history classes, why it’s important to learn about the wives of the great men of history, and why a complete picture of a respected icon like Frederick Douglass enhances, rather than diminishes, our understanding of him. It was a terrific conversation about a thrilling book, with an author I am a huge fan of. I can’t wait to hear what you think!
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Host: Julie Strauss
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Guest: Piper Huguley
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Discussed in this episode:
By Her Own Design: A Novel of Ann Lowe, Fashion Designer to the Social Register by Piper Huguley
Douglass’ Women by Jewell Parker Rhodes
Ann Lowe Exhibit at the Winterthur Museum
Jacqueline Kennedy’s Wedding Dress
Olivia de Havilland wearing Ann Lowe-designed gown to win her first Oscar (please look at this dress, it is stunning.)
Jackie Oh! by Kitty Kelley
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass by Frederick Douglass
Voodoo Dreams: A Novel of Marie Laveau by Jewell Parker Rhodes
Sister Mother Warrior by Vanessa Riley
Island Queen by Vanessa Riley
Sweet Tea by Piper Huguley
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