The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman

By: Ernest J. Gaines

Narrated by: Lynne Thigpen

The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman has sold over a million copies nationwide since its publication in 1971, making the fictional character of Miss Jane so real many people don’t know she exists only in the imagination of Louisiana-born author Ernest J. Gaines. Miss Jane is 100 years old when she is interviewed by an area high school teacher looking to teach his students more about plantation society in the Deep South. Her story is not only a vivid picture of the South before the dawn of the civil rights era, but also a story of one woman’s survival against overwhelming odds. A stunning autobiography of a courageous woman who won her battles with grace and dignity. Born a slave and freed when she was 10, Jane leaves the plantation of her childhood and heads in the direction of Ohio, in search of a white abolitionist who once befriended her. Accompanied by Ned, a young orphan, Jane struggles to get out of Louisiana. What happens in the years that follow is a tale of loss and heartache and renewed hope, imprinted on its aged teller’s face like furrows in a russet field. Now, in the racial upheavals of the ’60s, Miss Jane brings closure to one generation, and inspiration to the next.

©1971 Ernest J. Gaines (P)1994 Recorded Books

good listen, even though it's frustrating at times

Compelling narrative although at times Jane's lack of agency is extremely frustrating; however, by the end of the story she has developed some sense of autonomy which is somewhat redeeming.

From Civil War to Civil Rights

February is Black History Month. I usually attempt to read a book about black history or read a book written by a black author or both. This year I decided to read a novel I read back in 1971 when the book first came out. Since then the book has become a classic. A movie was made in 1974 starring Cicely Tyson. I sort of remember the movie was good. I think I shall check to see if Amazon has the movie and will watch it after I finish the book.

The book is fiction but is written in the style of oral history. The author’s brilliantly crafted book interweaves historical references and recollections into an overall framework of the life of a woman born into slavery who survived to the point of the beginning of the civil rights movement of the 1960s. The story is told as seen through the eyes of a 110 year old woman who had lived though it all; with simplicity and immense dignity Jane Pittman speaks of the Reconstruction period in the deep South, with its struggles for black self determination and betterment. The constant terror of the Ku Klux Klan to thwart those efforts, and the legacy of racism that white Americans use right up to the present day.

Gaines’s description of the plantation is authentic and spellbinding. The story gripped my attention right from the beginning and kept it throughout the story. This is a book that I enjoyed the first time I read it and have enjoyed it even more on the second reading. Gaines was born on a Louisiana Plantation but was educated at San Francisco State and Stanford University. This is a must read book for everyone. Lynne Thigpen did an excellent job narrating the story.

Beautiful, stunning, timely

I read this book thirty years ago and was very affected by it. The audible, however, brought life to the words, already so beautifully written. The performance by Ms. Thigpen was riveting. Now, considering what is happening in America, this book, sadly, reminds us of the progress in race relations, yet to be made. I am horrified by the treatment of our fellow human beings. I am horrified by Confederate flags and the N word that is still being used by some on a regular basis. Yet, I am inspired by Miss Jane Pittman and by all of the Jane Pittmans in the world. And the Mr. Pittmans. Gender doesn't matter. When will we learn? I will listen to this book again. I will read this book again.

Must Listen!

Put this on your "must listen" list! This audio production is flawless and the only way to really get the flavor, sights and sounds of this book.
I was reluctant to start this because it sounded depressing. The way this fabulous story is told is anything but depressing! No way to recommend this more highly.

Great read

I really enjoyed this book. The story was excellent. I remember the movie the book was better.

Fervent believe in God’s plan

I liked the reality of the fact/events that were told.
And a sad reminder in knowing the cruelties one human being can do to another.

Beautiful story...

We need to keep remembering how tough it was as we progress. Oppression continues and this is just a reminder of how stupid and selfish it is.
Cultures have to just keep growing regardless of how difficult it is.

Captivating

The story is so well written it’s like her voice is of the voiceless. Ms. Jane didn’t need to be a real person for the stories to be true. Such a good listen!

Wonderful.

Recommend this book. Very well read, it feels like Miss Jane Pittman is telling you her own story. ❤️

Wonderfully sad uplifting story

Love the way Mr Gaines can be so serious yet let you chuckle at his one liners. Catches the true life ups and downs. Great story for reflection.