A Cloud of Women: The Powerful Connection between Black Women and Women of the Bible

by Georgia A. Hill, Diane Proctor-Reeder (Editor)

What does Bessie Smith have in common with the biblical Eve?
 
A Cloud of Women elevates dozens of biblical women, pointing out parallels between their life experiences and the lives of contemporary and historical Black women. See God's eternal influence on the lives of these inspiring figures and realize the opportunities for your own service and impact today.
 
Empowering biblical truths and illustrations will prompt you to serve and lead in your family, community, and church. Eve, Esther, Mary, and Deborah are a few of the guides as A Cloud of Women navigates cultural and women's issues then and now. You’ll learn from the examples of icons as Marian Wright Edelman, Biddy Mason, Sojourner Truth, plus contemporary female judges, teachers, musicians, artists, and scientists. 
 

160 pages, Paperback

Published January 2, 2024

Reviews

[Diane Rembert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book would be perfect for a women's study group, book club or buddy read. The issues addressed in this book related to everyday life, using the women in the Bible.

[ry · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Much of this work was unheralded, underappreciated, and underestimated, although absolutely essential to the church, then and now."
4.5💫
This collection of essays and biographies combined with cultural analysis is beautifully done. Though I am normally bored by Catholic information, I was enthralled by this book.
The Pros:
- The connections were shown fully throughout the book; they were emphasized when they should have been and fully allowed to exist, in community and in commonality.
- Feelings of love and romance are not prioritized, but they are mentioned.
- Maternal feelings are described as a very specific kind of love.
The Cons:
- The love of motherhood is described as the most sacred of biblical duties, which is not great or correct in my opinion.

**Thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC.**

[Jillian B · Rating 5 out of 5]

This compelling book draws comparisons between the women of the Bible and Black women throughout history. It draws parallels I never would have thought of that made me see these Biblical heroines in a new light. For instance, Shiphrah and Puah, the midwives who saved Hebrew baby boys from the Egyptian pharaoh, are compared to Marian Wright Edelman and her relentless advocacy for Black children. This book also introduced me to historical figures I was unaware of, like the mothers of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcom X, both of whom had compelling life stories beyond their famous sons. This book is a testament to the enduring faith of Black women and the mark they have made on God’s Kingdom.

[LaShanda Chamberlain · Rating 5 out of 5]

This engaging book takes you on a journey through the stories of women in the Bible, intertwining their narratives with the unwavering strength shown by Black women throughout history. Reflecting on my early years in a Black church that acknowledged the vital role of Black women in the community, the revelation of this connection wasn't just interesting; it struck a chord with me. Black women, in particular, have consistently demonstrated remarkable strength, gracefully overcoming challenges.

The book skillfully captures the enduring impact Black women have made on God's Kingdom. It radiates with joy, celebrating not only their strength but also their resilience and unwavering commitment to bringing about positive change.

Fascinating and thought-provoking, this literary gem proves to be a delightful read, inviting readers to uncover the profound stories of strength and resilience intricately woven into the rich tapestry of history.

A special thanks to NetGalley for this opportunity to read this ARC!!

[Alexia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This digital ARC was obtainable via NetGalley for an honest review!

Biblical history=black history! It is no wonder why our history (black) parallels the bible. As one reads Deuteronomy, a book of curses and blessings (most importantly, judgement), make note on who those curses fit. Revelation 2:9 & 3:9 is very important for you to acknowledge if you treasure truth. In these days where knowledge is just a click or a book away, please do your own research!

"A Cloud of Women" is a good book that reads like a history text mixed with a devotional. At times I didn't agree with certain outlooks even as a black woman myself. However, that doesn't take away from what the author is trying to tell us. In this generation a book like this is needed.

[Haerlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Description
Discover inspiring parallels between biblical figures and the lives of both contemporary and historical Black women and be encouraged to greatness from a biblical perspective. Eve, Esther, Mary, and Deborah are a few of the guides as A Cloud of Women navigates cultural and women's issues then and now. Learn from icons such as Marian Wright Edelman, Biddy Mason, Sojourner Truth, Shirley Chisholm, and present-day judges, teachers, artists, and scientists.

I enjoyed the way that women in the bible were given new context through the similarities of Black women of today. Each analysis provided great facts and nuanced takes about the women of the Bible that we think we know.

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a work of genius and a breath of fresh air! Growing up in the black community I've seen first hand how Black women are the pillars and backbone of our community. But I've made the connections that the author has when she draws parallels to famous figures in the bible and black women. This is a book everyone needs to read

[Gabby Penn Farmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this for a local book club meeting.
Not my usual genre, but it was interesting.
I’m not religious so I wasn’t familiar with a lot of the biblical women mentioned, or the scriptures. But I did like the comparisons and connections to the women of our time.

[Dominique · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes Yes Yes! A Cloud of Women is how you make the world of the Bible and the world of the past and present come alive. This book is such a breath of fresh air within the genre of Christian literature! Sometimes, Bible studies geared toward Black women can feel forced or weird. But A Cloud of Women seamlessly flowed and provided powerful connections between biblical characters and influential black women. The text is so powerful and encouraging to read. I will recommend this book to other women who struggle to see their lived experiences and values reflected in traditional bible studies. Well Done, Ms. Hill, and Ms. Reeder !!!! Thank you to Net Galley and Our Daily Bread Publishing for the digital arc!
My final rating is 5 stars.