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Henrietha by Joyce M Johnson
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Henrietha

Country of origin – Canada
It all started in Toronto, Ontario in a coffee shop on the Southside corner of Church and King Street right across the street from St. James Cathedral. Joanna White was having a difficult time in her office as well as in her marriage as her husband had recently walked out on her. Joanna is trying to restructure her life when she’s interrupted by Jamaican-born Henrietha Browne, who had just walked in forcefully pulling her chair out, sitting down, taking a sip of her coffee then humming a song and tapping in rhythm close by. Intrigued by Henrietha’s carefree nature and desperate to get out of her own thoughts, Joanna asks Henrietha to join. Henrietha agrees and quickly bonds with Joanna while exchanging stories of pain, defeat, and abuse. From that day forward, they were inseparable; making plans to continue to share stories as they explore Toronto. Waiting for the World to Change speaks about marriage and domestic work. Susan Ottawa, a black lawyer in Toronto, and Anita Kingsley, a domestic worker, had met in the same building where they live. One day, they were having lunch and Susan had a book that she had just bought. In anger, she threw a book titled “Is marriage for White People” on the table. The root of Susan’s anger comes from knowing she’s struggling to find a man and men from all different walks of life are quicker to marry white women before the thought of a black woman crosses their mind. Anita drew a comparison to domestic work. As a college educated woman, she too, found it very difficult to find a job outside of domestic work and in her field of study. She finds herself asking “Is domestic work just for black people?” And it continues.

About the Author

Joyce M. Johnson was born in Jamaica, West Indies where she spent her formative years and has lived in Canada for over 50 years attending high school and college here as well. After graduating from college, her long successful career began at Dover Elevator where she worked in main frame computer as a Computer Programmer and Operator. Joyce then studied creative writing at Seneca College in Toronto, Canada.
The years of living in Canada have awakened Joyce’s consciousness. She’s been led by inner and outward influences as she writes about her wealth of life experiences developed in Canada; shaped in part by her Jamaican past.
Her first novel was originally called, ‘In Search of Happiness” but before publishing, she changed the name has been change to ‘Henrietha’. From its inception, it has then evolved into 2 sets of 3 books: Henrietha book 1-3 as well as Waiting for the World to Chang book 1-3. Joyce says. “This is an exciting beginning to my writing career, because I do feel this is where my calling lies.

Read more about Joyce in our Featured Author and Author Interview section.

 

Litlinks Review

Joyce M. Johnson’s Henrietha is a poignant and evocative novel that captures the resilience of the human spirit through the eyes of its titular character. Set against a vivid and immersive backdrop, Johnson takes readers on an emotional journey that intertwines personal struggles, societal expectations, and the quest for identity.

Plot and Themes

The story follows Henrietha, a deeply layered protagonist navigating the challenges of life with grace and grit. Johnson skillfully weaves themes of love, loss, and self-discovery into Henrietha’s journey, creating a narrative that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. The exploration of family dynamics and the weight of generational expectations adds depth to the story, making it resonate with readers on multiple levels.

Characterization

Henrietha is a beautifully developed character, brimming with complexities and contradictions that make her feel real. Her growth throughout the novel is both inspiring and heartbreaking, as she grapples with choices that test her strength and resolve. The supporting characters are equally compelling, offering a tapestry of perspectives that enrich the story and provide insights into Henrietha’s world.

Writing Style

Johnson’s prose is lyrical and immersive, painting scenes with vivid imagery and emotional nuance. The author’s attention to detail brings the settings and characters to life, while her ability to delve into the psyche of her protagonist creates an intimate connection between the reader and Henrietha.

Pacing and Structure

The pacing of the novel is deliberate, allowing readers to fully absorb the complexities of the story and the weight of Henrietha’s experiences. While some may find the slower moments a challenge, they are integral to the emotional depth and authenticity of the narrative.

Overall Impression

Henrietha is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that will linger in the hearts and minds of its readers long after the final page. Joyce M. Johnson has crafted a story that celebrates resilience and the enduring power of hope. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates rich character development and emotionally resonant storytelling.

 

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