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Simply Madear: It Ain't My Business, But...

by Beatrice Watson

230 pages; quality trade paperback (softcover); catalogue #02-0425; ISBN 1-55369-612-3; US$21.04, C$21.04, EUR14.37, £10.86

A book on southern, black motherhood, its home spun method of parenting. It is based on the author's relationship with her mother, affectionately called Madear, her father and nine siblings.

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about the book      about the author      sample excerpts or Table of Contents      catalogue info

About the Book This book takes you on a journey of nostalgic, maternal words of wisdom, through stories, quotes and poetry. It centers around a southern, black mother and her no nonsense method of parenting and enforcement of family values. It takes place in the mid-fifties and extends throughout the early nineties, following her ten children from youth through adulthood in Detroit, Michigan. Simply Madear, focuses on the unconditional love of motherhood and the difficulties many mothers have in releasing their young. It is narrated, along with poetry, by author Beatrice Watson. Quotes of wisdom with warmth and occasional humor are delivered in the southern tone of Madear. The book is wonderfully enjoyable reading for the whole family "SIMPLY MADEAR is a refreshing and universal story of a mother raising her children with faith, love and wisdom, told using the words of Madear and her daughter. "Why can't your baby sister go with you, what'cha gonna be doin she can't see?", is something that most of us with younger siblings have heard at some time in our lives. Madear follows with sage advice delivered in a voice that we all remember and recognize. We see a glimpse into the life of Madear as she shares her history and wisdom with her children. Ms. Watson has given us a look at two stories that are brilliantly intertwined to produce a lyrical and deeply moving memoir that resonates with the universal themes of family, faith and love. Her poetry throughout is not only a tribute to her mother, but to mothers everywhere. As I turned the pages, it brought back memories of my own mother and her words of wisdom. This book is a delight and deserves your time and, a few tears." - Barbara C. Fields, Region Librarian, Chicago Public Schools "You will be able to experience laughter, joy and, a time of uplifting inspiration." - in foreword by Dr. Margaret T.G. Burroughs, Founder, Emeritus and Director of the DuSable Museum of African American History, Chicago

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About the Author Formerly from Detroit, Beatrice attended Roosevelt University and Columbia College in Chicago where she now resides. Beatrice, a mother of one daughter Mia, has appeared on stage and television, as a performer and as a guest. She has written, produced, and directed several plays for Community Theatre. As a public speaker, she is highly concerned about the future of our youth and the images that are projected in the various forms of media. She hopes that her writings can make a difference. Beatrice Watson is available for speaking engagements, readings, and book signings.

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Sample Excerpts or Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

Part One and Two
The Early Years / Molding a Family

Tells of a young family, Madear and Daddy, migrating from the south to the north with their children in search of a better life, including the simplicity of raising children during the late forties through the seventies (Poems) "As I Reflect" and "Childhood Friday".

Part Three
Adolescence and Sex

The coming of age during the late fifties in Detroit, Michigan. The anxiety of a mother dealing with the growing pains of adolescent teens with the basic maternal instinct of right and wrong. She guided and directed their growth and development through church and community.

Part Four
Religion

Tells of the strong southern religious beliefs and folklore that Madear, and other parents of her era used to instill morality and righteous behaviour in the shaping of the family unit during the fifties through the seventies. (Poems) "To You My Children" and "God and I".

Part Five
When a Child Leaves Home

Breaking away from the family nest. Children of adult age finding their way, armed with the basic training received from their childhood. (Poem) "Farewell Ny Nest".

Part Six
Loss of a Child

The coping of parents in confronting the death of their child, as they keep their inner strength and faith. (Poem) "Friend or Foe".

Part Seven and Eight
Love and Marriage - It Ain't My Business, But...

A Mother's input on her adult children in making sound decisions with their head and not just with their heart. The inability of a mother to release her adult children to their own fate

Part Nine and Ten
Taking Responsibility / Pride and Self Confidence

Now a grandmother, Madear talks on crime and violence as she passes her wisdom onto the third generation. She teaches them to take responsibility for their own actions and thake charge of their lives.

Part Eleven
Aging and Fear

The deep emotions of aging parents and the fears it generates. (Poem) "As Time Moves On".

Part Twelve
Violence and Crime

It talks about the changes in our youth and society as safety in the streets and our homes are threatened. (Poem) "Baby Boy".

Part Thirteen
Illness and Death of a Parent

The agony of watching the debilitating effects of illness and coming to grips with the death of a parent. "This woman who had been with me my whole, long before I knew who I was, was about to leave me". (Poem) "Here We Stand".

The story ends with a poem that stands alone, but sums it all up, giving us the courage to look ahead. (Poem) "Mother".

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Catalogue Information

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