The UT Dallas Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, in collaboration with the Harry W. Bass School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology, hosted an enlightening discussion with Alyson Richman and Shaunna J. Edwards, authors “The Thread Collectors: A Novel” on Sunday, September 10, 2023.
On Sunday, Dr. Nils Roemer, dean of the Bass School, and DEI vice-president Dr. Yvette E. Pearson engaged in a dynamic conversation with Richman and Edwards, exploring the profound themes of the book. The authors discussed their endearing friendship, what they learned about each other and themselves while collaborating on “The Thread Collectors,” and the message of hope infused in their work.
This historical novel, set during the Civil War, explores the journey of a young Black woman who embroiders maps on cloth to assist enslaved men in joining the Union Army. Simultaneously, in New York City, a Jewish woman is diligently crafting a quilt for her husband, stationed in Louisiana with the Union Army. Their paths converge in New Orleans, where an unexpected encounter unveils the profound influence of their crafts on love and freedom.