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Citizens Creek
The New York Times bestselling author of the Oprah Book Club Pick Cane River brings us the evocative story of a once-enslaved man who buys his freedom after serving as a translator during the American Indian Wars, and his granddaughter, who sustains his legacy of courage.Cow Tom, born into slavery in Alabama in 1810 and sold to a Creek Indian chief before his tenth birthday, possessed an extraordinary the ability to master languages. As the new country developed westward, and Indians, settlers, and blacks came into constant contact, Cow Tom became a key translator for his Creek master and was hired out to US military generals. His talent earned him money—but would it also grant him freedom? And what would become of him and his family in the aftermath of the Civil War and the Indian Removal westward? Cow Tom’s legacy lives on—especially in the courageous spirit of his granddaughter Rose. She rises to leadership of the family as they struggle against political and societal hostility intent on keeping blacks and Indians oppressed. But through it all, her grandfather’s indelible mark of courage inspires her—in mind, in spirit, and in a family legacy that never dies. Written in two parts portraying the parallel lives of Cow Tom and Rose, Citizens Creek is a beautifully rendered novel that takes the reader deep into a little known chapter of American history. It is a breathtaking tale of identity, community, family—and above all, the power of an individual’s will to make a difference.
433 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2014
87 people are currently reading
4310 people want to read
About the author
Lalita Tademy
11 books601 followersLALITA TADEMY left the corporate world to immerse herself in tracing her family's history and writing her first historical novel, CANE RIVER. Her debut was selected by Oprah Winfrey as her summer book group pick in 2001.
Lalita Tademy's second historical novel, RED RIVER is set during Reconstruction-era Louisiana a time period and subject matter often summarily skimmed in our history books. The story of Red River begins in 1873, and follows the ramifications of an incident on Easter Sunday of that year on successive generations of two families involved.
In her latest work, Citizens Creek, Tademy brings us the evocative story of a once-enslaved man who buys his freedom after serving as a translator during the American Indian Wars, and his granddaughter, who sustains his legacy of courage. Citizens Creekwill be released in November 2014.
Photograph courtesy of the author.
Lalita Tademy's second historical novel, RED RIVER is set during Reconstruction-era Louisiana a time period and subject matter often summarily skimmed in our history books. The story of Red River begins in 1873, and follows the ramifications of an incident on Easter Sunday of that year on successive generations of two families involved.
In her latest work, Citizens Creek, Tademy brings us the evocative story of a once-enslaved man who buys his freedom after serving as a translator during the American Indian Wars, and his granddaughter, who sustains his legacy of courage. Citizens Creekwill be released in November 2014.
Photograph courtesy of the author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 250 reviews
November 2, 2014
I had absolutely no idea that in the 1800's, Creek and Seminole Indians owned black slaves. Many of these slaves would in time become accepted as part of the tribe, being both Indian and black.
This is the remarkable story of one such family, starting with Cow Tom, whose mother was kidnapped by the Seminoles and who would himself be sold at the age of ten to a Creek Indian Chief. He would eventually be loaned to the Army to help with the Indian removal of all tribes from Florida. As a translator he would do many things that he was ashamed of, many things he felt he needed to atone for.
After his death the story would continue with his grand daughter Rose. Both these characters and many of the second characters are fully fleshed and memorable. This is a story of Indian Wars, the founding of colored towns after the Civil War and the making of a family and the hard work that went into farming their land. This novel covers so much history , but is also a novel about the importance of family, of land and keeping what is yours, forgetting the past and looking towards the future. Eventually it will come down to forgiveness, to learning to let go in order to keep hope alive. Such a remarkable story, told in straightforward prose that is nonetheless brilliant in its execution. I really wanted the story to continue, to find out what happens to this family in the future.
The authors note explains that this is a story based on a real family, one in which many of their descendants are still alive today. Just love explanatory author's notes.
ARC from NetGalley.
This is the remarkable story of one such family, starting with Cow Tom, whose mother was kidnapped by the Seminoles and who would himself be sold at the age of ten to a Creek Indian Chief. He would eventually be loaned to the Army to help with the Indian removal of all tribes from Florida. As a translator he would do many things that he was ashamed of, many things he felt he needed to atone for.
After his death the story would continue with his grand daughter Rose. Both these characters and many of the second characters are fully fleshed and memorable. This is a story of Indian Wars, the founding of colored towns after the Civil War and the making of a family and the hard work that went into farming their land. This novel covers so much history , but is also a novel about the importance of family, of land and keeping what is yours, forgetting the past and looking towards the future. Eventually it will come down to forgiveness, to learning to let go in order to keep hope alive. Such a remarkable story, told in straightforward prose that is nonetheless brilliant in its execution. I really wanted the story to continue, to find out what happens to this family in the future.
The authors note explains that this is a story based on a real family, one in which many of their descendants are still alive today. Just love explanatory author's notes.
ARC from NetGalley.
November 5, 2014
I’ve read all of bestselling author Lalita Tademy’s novels and each has had a definite impact on me. They’re the kind of novels that keep me thinking about them for weeks afterward, and that’s always a good thing. Her new novel, Citizens Creek, shines a light on a part of African American history that isn’t talked about a lot – or at least by people I’ve known. I also don’t recall studying it as part of my U.S. history classes, although that probably shouldn’t be a huge surprise. If you’re interested in the American Indian Wars, the Civil War, African American or Native American history – or whether you just like a good read about a family’s struggles to find its place in this country or want to see how one person can make a real difference, then you’ll want to learn more about Citizens Creek at http://popcornreads.com/?p=7861.
September 1, 2025
Life during and after the Indian Removal Act of 1830 is rendered in this historical novel from the viewpoint of the African American slaves owned by the Indians. This book's story is based on two historical individuals, Cow Tom (1810-1874) and his granddaughter Rose Simmons (1855±-1930±). Cow Tom was purchased at age ten by a Creek Indian Chief, and because of his prior exposures to multiple languages he was used by the Chief as translator with Seminole, Creek, and white traders.
As time passed his language skills became known to government officials who were trying to move the "five civilized" tribes to Oklahoma Territory. Cow Tom was borrowed by the U.S. Army to serve as translator in their negotiations with the Seminoles of Florida during the Second Seminole War. This experience made Cow Tom well known and respected among government officials which later were helpful in subsequent negotiations related to the forced relocation of all Indians including the Chief who owned him.
I found it interesting to note that one of the reasons the Seminoles resisted moving was because of the African Americans who lived with the tribe. Many surrounding white plantation owners claimed they were escaped slaves, and whenever Seminoles began to surrender slave traders would lay claim to this lost property. This wasn't a threat to Cow Tome because he was clearly purchased by his master, but the status of his mother as described in this novel was ambiguous and her moving with the tribe to Oklahoma needed to be done covertly.
In the. years after the move to Oklahoma in 1842± Cow Tom was able to purchase his freedom and subsequently became relatively wealthy as a cattleman as he continued to live among the Creek Indians. He and his family were forced to temporarily relocate to Fort Gibson during the Civil War due to threats to their lives and freedom. During this time Cow Tom was recognized as a Chief among the Creek due to his services in negotiations for supplies with the Army. Again it was his language skills that made him an important asset to Indian welfare.
After the Civil War Cow Tom went to Washington DC to lobby on behalf of the black freedmen who lived among the Indians. His testimony was successful in assuring that the African Americans among the Indians would continue to be recognized as part the their respective tribes.
The second half of the book follows the life of Rose Simmons who was Cow Tom's granddaughter. It tells the story of living through the enactment of the Dawes Act and the subsequent invasion of white people. It also tells the story of the successful cattle business established by Rose's husband. The book makes clear that it was his wife Rose who made sure ranch operations ran smoothly while her husband was gone on business.
One of Cow Tom's great-grandsons and son of Rose, Jake Simmons (1901-1981), later became a successful African American oil broker and politician of the early 1900s.
As time passed his language skills became known to government officials who were trying to move the "five civilized" tribes to Oklahoma Territory. Cow Tom was borrowed by the U.S. Army to serve as translator in their negotiations with the Seminoles of Florida during the Second Seminole War. This experience made Cow Tom well known and respected among government officials which later were helpful in subsequent negotiations related to the forced relocation of all Indians including the Chief who owned him.
I found it interesting to note that one of the reasons the Seminoles resisted moving was because of the African Americans who lived with the tribe. Many surrounding white plantation owners claimed they were escaped slaves, and whenever Seminoles began to surrender slave traders would lay claim to this lost property. This wasn't a threat to Cow Tome because he was clearly purchased by his master, but the status of his mother as described in this novel was ambiguous and her moving with the tribe to Oklahoma needed to be done covertly.
In the. years after the move to Oklahoma in 1842± Cow Tom was able to purchase his freedom and subsequently became relatively wealthy as a cattleman as he continued to live among the Creek Indians. He and his family were forced to temporarily relocate to Fort Gibson during the Civil War due to threats to their lives and freedom. During this time Cow Tom was recognized as a Chief among the Creek due to his services in negotiations for supplies with the Army. Again it was his language skills that made him an important asset to Indian welfare.
After the Civil War Cow Tom went to Washington DC to lobby on behalf of the black freedmen who lived among the Indians. His testimony was successful in assuring that the African Americans among the Indians would continue to be recognized as part the their respective tribes.
The second half of the book follows the life of Rose Simmons who was Cow Tom's granddaughter. It tells the story of living through the enactment of the Dawes Act and the subsequent invasion of white people. It also tells the story of the successful cattle business established by Rose's husband. The book makes clear that it was his wife Rose who made sure ranch operations ran smoothly while her husband was gone on business.
One of Cow Tom's great-grandsons and son of Rose, Jake Simmons (1901-1981), later became a successful African American oil broker and politician of the early 1900s.
April 30, 2015
The story of the Black Creeks who were slaves to the creek nation and their quest to be free men and recognize fully as creeks is a daunting tale of heroism, perseverance, and courage. As much as the creeks and eventually the white man tries to desiccate creek Blacks into second or third class citizens. Cow Tom, a Black creek slave, shows his resolve and negotiates the treaty of 1866 for free Black creek slaves with the U.S. government. (Cow Tom is a real person and his life story is worth reading.)
As a tyro learner of creek history and the relationship with African-American slavery. I learned about the culture of a people as they were facing the destruction of their way of life. How identity shapes us even today as we speak and live. The importance of family bonds both blood and life long kept the Simmons family striving for a future. A legacy passed down to future generations is what Cow Tom gave is children, grand-children, great grand-children, great great grand-children, and beyond. And what Cow Tom gave is oldest grand child Rose is a vision that a person is more than what one sees and thinks of oneself. You must pass your gifts on to others.
Quote From Book:
He was no more sure this was true than his reassurances to the Seminole Negroes that they would be fine on board this vessel. He purposefully said "we" instead of "you" to hold himself apart, to be an element of solution instead of lumped in as problem.
As a tyro learner of creek history and the relationship with African-American slavery. I learned about the culture of a people as they were facing the destruction of their way of life. How identity shapes us even today as we speak and live. The importance of family bonds both blood and life long kept the Simmons family striving for a future. A legacy passed down to future generations is what Cow Tom gave is children, grand-children, great grand-children, great great grand-children, and beyond. And what Cow Tom gave is oldest grand child Rose is a vision that a person is more than what one sees and thinks of oneself. You must pass your gifts on to others.
Quote From Book:
He was no more sure this was true than his reassurances to the Seminole Negroes that they would be fine on board this vessel. He purposefully said "we" instead of "you" to hold himself apart, to be an element of solution instead of lumped in as problem.
December 2, 2014
Citizens Creek is a generational novel about Black Creeks told from two perspectives - grandfather and granddaughter. The novel spans almost seventy years as it follows Cow Tom and his granddaughter, Rose. Tademy brings an interesting view of slavery and the mid to late 1800s by focusing on the slaves owned by Creek Indians and how "removal" to Indian Territory effected them. The concept of the book is very intriguing; however, the content didn't meet my expectations. Citizens Creek left me wanting more from the characters and the plot. I didn't feel invested in the characters. I'm not sure if that was on purpose since the characters didn't seem to have a stronghold on anything either. I wanted more plot development. There were a few moments that my jaw dropped but nothing that stopped me from putting the book down. Citizens Creek is an interesting, different, and eye-opening novel that sheds light on a population of people that are often forgotten. I just needed more from Cow Tom, Rose, Amy, Sarah/Bella, and even Harry Island to feel truly connected to their story.
January 13, 2015
This was an excellent book! Beginning in the year of 1822, you will have the honor to read about the first black Creek Indian Chief Cow Tom Simmons serving as a translator during the military, wars and in times of trouble. Without giving this book totally away, it details his family story of tragedy, determination, perseverance, heartache but triumph in the end.
This is a true story account of a family in Oklahoma during the 1800's and how they survived and kept their lands as Indians, Freeman and their dealings with the U.S. Government. I would love to see THIS as a movie! I couldn't put it down. I cried, laughed and got angry all at the same time. Well done...
This is a true story account of a family in Oklahoma during the 1800's and how they survived and kept their lands as Indians, Freeman and their dealings with the U.S. Government. I would love to see THIS as a movie! I couldn't put it down. I cried, laughed and got angry all at the same time. Well done...
February 14, 2016
Good, but a little drawn out in areas. It was hard to get behind Cow Tom at times. Review to come.
December 19, 2014
“Citizens Creek” by Lalita Tademy, published by Atria Books.
Category – Historical Fiction Publication Date – November 04, 2014
There are not too many books that come out that not only tells a good story and has deep meaning and can be read and appreciated by all readers, “Citizens Creek” is that kind of book.
The story is based in historical fact and tells about a little known fact in American history, that the American Indian had black slaves.
Cow Tom was a black slave to a Creek Indian Chief. Tom was very good at picking up Indian languages and was assigned by the Chief to the U.S. Army as a translator. He had to leave his family to help in the war against the Seminole Indians in Florida. Tom wanted to be a freeman more than anything and did everything he could to buy his freedom for $400.00.
Tom and his family were forced to move from Alabama to Oklahoma when the government needed land for westward expansion. Tom and his family overcome obstacle after obstacle as they laid claim to ownership not only of their lives but a prospering farm. His granddaughter Rose becomes the focal point to the story as she is entrusted by Tom to keep his legacy and secrets. Rose marries and becomes the rock on which the family will build their new life. Her life if far from free of strife but boldly faces her challenges that occur in her love life, her children, and the emerging political and social upheaval occurring in the new nation.
An outstanding read that is very unique in its story as well as the characters in the story. A little known part of American History that needed to be told, a book that can be read and enjoyed by all readers.
Category – Historical Fiction Publication Date – November 04, 2014
There are not too many books that come out that not only tells a good story and has deep meaning and can be read and appreciated by all readers, “Citizens Creek” is that kind of book.
The story is based in historical fact and tells about a little known fact in American history, that the American Indian had black slaves.
Cow Tom was a black slave to a Creek Indian Chief. Tom was very good at picking up Indian languages and was assigned by the Chief to the U.S. Army as a translator. He had to leave his family to help in the war against the Seminole Indians in Florida. Tom wanted to be a freeman more than anything and did everything he could to buy his freedom for $400.00.
Tom and his family were forced to move from Alabama to Oklahoma when the government needed land for westward expansion. Tom and his family overcome obstacle after obstacle as they laid claim to ownership not only of their lives but a prospering farm. His granddaughter Rose becomes the focal point to the story as she is entrusted by Tom to keep his legacy and secrets. Rose marries and becomes the rock on which the family will build their new life. Her life if far from free of strife but boldly faces her challenges that occur in her love life, her children, and the emerging political and social upheaval occurring in the new nation.
An outstanding read that is very unique in its story as well as the characters in the story. A little known part of American History that needed to be told, a book that can be read and enjoyed by all readers.
October 6, 2014
Citizen's Creek first tells the story of Cow Tom--a slave to a Creek Indian Chief in Alabama during the time of the Indian Removal west. The book then focuses to Cow Tom's granddaughter Rose and her struggle for independence and later to keep her family together.
I found this interesting and was glad to learn more about a part of history that I didn't know much about. I appreciate all the research that Tademy must have done to bring this piece of history to light. Where I felt the book lacked was in the characters. They never came to life for me and seemed, especially Rose, to be only one-dimensional. I was disappointed in the writing, especially as I had really enjoyed Tademy's Cane River.
I found this interesting and was glad to learn more about a part of history that I didn't know much about. I appreciate all the research that Tademy must have done to bring this piece of history to light. Where I felt the book lacked was in the characters. They never came to life for me and seemed, especially Rose, to be only one-dimensional. I was disappointed in the writing, especially as I had really enjoyed Tademy's Cane River.
December 13, 2014
Another solid offering from Tademy. It's been a long time since her 'River' books were out, but this one is worth the wait. I love how she can take these scraps and pockets of history that never make it to the text books and research them and fill them in and bring them to life. This is the story of the African American slaves owned by Native American Tribes (did you know of such a thing?). These slaves are a part of the tribe. The story follows one family from removal, full tribal citizenship, emancipation and finally the Oklahoma land boom. Strong, dimensional, characters tell the story as it moves quickly through time.
April 16, 2017
I would like to give this book 4.5 stars. Another great story by Lalita Tademy! This was based on some true characters, African freed people who were members of the Creek tribe of American Indians in the late 1800s. Engrossing and also a positive and empowering story, which many historical perspectives of African Americans in that era or (understandably) not.
February 1, 2016
I received this book as a Goodreads First Reads winner.
Citizens Creek takes place in the early 1800s and spans over roughly a century of events in American history centered around Native Americans from different nations, their slaves and freedmen. (Can I just say, I was also amazed to discover how much I didn't know about the history of slavery and Native American tribes during this period, and why isn't this more commonly taught?) All of this is told through the lives of one family, mainly Cow Tom and then his granddaughter Rose.
I found this novel both interesting and disappointing at the same time. Being a fan of history, I thoroughly enjoy stories written from cross-generational standpoints, and was very excited to start reading this. Initially, the story didn't draw me in. The writing simply felt bland and sometimes repetitive in detail. After the first few chapters, it does pick up but I didn't find that overzealous need to keep reading until well into the second half of the book.
The writing also made me feel detached from the characters even when they were facing extreme ordeals and hardships. On the one hand, I liked the jumps in time from chapter to chapter in order to encompass the many events that shaped this family and others historically, but it also alienated me from Cow Tom and Rose as chunks of their lives went missing and the few sentence summaries of what went on in between made it difficult to form a real connection with them. I found the secondary characters more intriguing and almost wish some parts of the story could've been told from their perspective as well.
Having never read any of Lalita Tademy's other works, it was nice to learn that she did extensive research on this time period and included a family that actually exists. It prompted me to do my own research too, which I appreciated. But even with, and possibly due to, the tremendous outline of events to bring forth, the book wrapped up a bit abruptly for my tastes.
Overall, I'm glad to have read Citizens Creek and would certainly recommend and pass it on to other readers, but it's probably not something I would pick up again.
Citizens Creek takes place in the early 1800s and spans over roughly a century of events in American history centered around Native Americans from different nations, their slaves and freedmen. (Can I just say, I was also amazed to discover how much I didn't know about the history of slavery and Native American tribes during this period, and why isn't this more commonly taught?) All of this is told through the lives of one family, mainly Cow Tom and then his granddaughter Rose.
I found this novel both interesting and disappointing at the same time. Being a fan of history, I thoroughly enjoy stories written from cross-generational standpoints, and was very excited to start reading this. Initially, the story didn't draw me in. The writing simply felt bland and sometimes repetitive in detail. After the first few chapters, it does pick up but I didn't find that overzealous need to keep reading until well into the second half of the book.
The writing also made me feel detached from the characters even when they were facing extreme ordeals and hardships. On the one hand, I liked the jumps in time from chapter to chapter in order to encompass the many events that shaped this family and others historically, but it also alienated me from Cow Tom and Rose as chunks of their lives went missing and the few sentence summaries of what went on in between made it difficult to form a real connection with them. I found the secondary characters more intriguing and almost wish some parts of the story could've been told from their perspective as well.
Having never read any of Lalita Tademy's other works, it was nice to learn that she did extensive research on this time period and included a family that actually exists. It prompted me to do my own research too, which I appreciated. But even with, and possibly due to, the tremendous outline of events to bring forth, the book wrapped up a bit abruptly for my tastes.
Overall, I'm glad to have read Citizens Creek and would certainly recommend and pass it on to other readers, but it's probably not something I would pick up again.
March 6, 2015
A line in the afterword to the novel states, "So many stories with black protagonists chronicle poor, defeated, powerless, dependent victims."
In response, Lalita Tademy seems to have set out to tell the story of a family that, flawed as they may be, remain strong and committed to their goals.
She is partially successful. The two main protagonists of the novel are Cow Tom and his granddaughter Rose. The story follows them through the end of the Seminole wars and the relocation of the Creeks. In particular, it delves into the layered lives of those who identified themselves as African as well as Indian. Cow Tom starts out enslaved to a Creek Chief but, through the dint of his efforts and gift with languages, eventually becomes not only free, but also the first African Creek Chief. His granddaughter Rose, born into the turbulent time of relocation, then fights to find a place for herself and the family she has formed within the new America being drawn.
It's a wonderful story. A powerful, emotional family saga that entertains and teaches in turn. So it's sad that the characters within the story are so unwilling to tell it. In fact, several of the major story arcs follow splintering within the family because a character is unwilling to talk about his or her adventures, past experiences, or the lessons learned from them. That was the most frustrating part of the story, knowing at every moment that simply sitting down as a family to talk about shared history would be exactly the glue needed to provide strength at a difficult time.
I'm glad this story was told. I hope the descendants of Cow Tom, among others, will finally learn enough of their own history to give them strength to walk proudly and face every challenge thrown their way.
I only wish the story had held fast to one protagonist. After investing as fully as I had in the life and troubles of Cow Tom, I had trouble refocusing on Rose, especially when she added her feminine identity and dead twin to the pile of confusion over cultural racial identity that Cow Tom was already wrestling with.
In response, Lalita Tademy seems to have set out to tell the story of a family that, flawed as they may be, remain strong and committed to their goals.
She is partially successful. The two main protagonists of the novel are Cow Tom and his granddaughter Rose. The story follows them through the end of the Seminole wars and the relocation of the Creeks. In particular, it delves into the layered lives of those who identified themselves as African as well as Indian. Cow Tom starts out enslaved to a Creek Chief but, through the dint of his efforts and gift with languages, eventually becomes not only free, but also the first African Creek Chief. His granddaughter Rose, born into the turbulent time of relocation, then fights to find a place for herself and the family she has formed within the new America being drawn.
It's a wonderful story. A powerful, emotional family saga that entertains and teaches in turn. So it's sad that the characters within the story are so unwilling to tell it. In fact, several of the major story arcs follow splintering within the family because a character is unwilling to talk about his or her adventures, past experiences, or the lessons learned from them. That was the most frustrating part of the story, knowing at every moment that simply sitting down as a family to talk about shared history would be exactly the glue needed to provide strength at a difficult time.
I'm glad this story was told. I hope the descendants of Cow Tom, among others, will finally learn enough of their own history to give them strength to walk proudly and face every challenge thrown their way.
I only wish the story had held fast to one protagonist. After investing as fully as I had in the life and troubles of Cow Tom, I had trouble refocusing on Rose, especially when she added her feminine identity and dead twin to the pile of confusion over cultural racial identity that Cow Tom was already wrestling with.
January 17, 2015
Lalita Tademy is quickly becoming the queen of the historical novel. She has done it again with this offering. I wasn't 100% sure this novel was based on real life events and people, but the way it was so intimate in its' portrayal of the main characters, I wasn't entirely surprised to find that indeed Citizens Creek is centered on the history of the real Jake Simmons. His story as the first Black Creek Indian chief is quite interesting. The storytelling is masterful and although the book drags in spots, it doesn't ever get to the point where you want to just stop reading.
There is a lot to learn history wise, rarely has the story of Native American slave holding been examined. So to explore the story of Cow Tom over 3 generations and his struggle for freedom from enslavement and the fight to be a recognized Creek Indian is fascinating. I initially went 3 stars, but as I begin to reflect and write this review, I think I have to go 4. The prose is good, pacing ok and the story and history are at times engrossing. So, I definitely feel like this is a winner, as was her other two books. I will be looking forward to her next one.
There is a lot to learn history wise, rarely has the story of Native American slave holding been examined. So to explore the story of Cow Tom over 3 generations and his struggle for freedom from enslavement and the fight to be a recognized Creek Indian is fascinating. I initially went 3 stars, but as I begin to reflect and write this review, I think I have to go 4. The prose is good, pacing ok and the story and history are at times engrossing. So, I definitely feel like this is a winner, as was her other two books. I will be looking forward to her next one.
October 17, 2014
I won this book in the first reads giveaway. I read Cane River when I was in high school and loved it so when I seen this book I knew I had to get it. I thought the story was really interesting how it started off with the life of Cow Tom and being a slave to the Indian chief. Then it went on to tell the story of his grand daughter. It was nice to see how the lives came together and the affect Cow Tom's life had on her. It was a very interesting time period and to be able to see that set through the book and learn some new things from this time in history was really great. Such a good book and so glad I got the chance to read it.
July 19, 2016
This is a historical novel based on a real family of black Creek Indians and their struggles in both communities. It's interesting, and I really like a couple of the characters, but the details of where they are, geographically, at any given time are confusing in spots. Also, I didn't like the book overall as much as Tademy's first two books, Cane River and Red River. Still, she's a good writer and worth reading.
February 16, 2015
disappointing. really deserved 2.5 stars. based on true story, Staking a Claim: Jake Simmons Jr. and the Making of an African-American Oil Dynasty, but I have no idea what that book was about. main character is Cow Tom, a slave held by a Creek chief. the story follows the tribe's Removal during the 1840's, Cow Tom's work as an interpreter in Florida with the Seminoles, and his family's story for the following two generations. It seemed like so much relevant history was left out of the story.
February 18, 2015
Citizen’s Creek a historical fiction novel detailing the growing pains of a new nation. Tademy chronicles the unforgettable story of Cow Tom, a slave turned Indian Chief, and the incredible journey of his family as told through the eyes of multiple generations.
April 3, 2017
I listened to this book- picked it up at the library during Black History Month on the table that said...if you liked ____________. This was historical fiction-based on a real person- about slavery under the Native American tribes of southeast US- and their role as the Native Americans were moved out and the role of their black slaves. It focuses primarily and 2 main characters- Cow Tom and his granddaughter Rose.
July 11, 2023
A solid historic, fiction inspired by real people, about a man and his ancestors who were enslaved by Native Americans (Creek, in this case) including their struggle to be recognized as part of the tribe. It's inspired by the true story of Cow Tom, the first "black chief".
I thought that this book was both brutal and honest in the portrayal of trauma around this time. My biggest complaint is that there wasn't a natural stopping point, and it continued for about 50 extra pages than held my interest.
I thought that this book was both brutal and honest in the portrayal of trauma around this time. My biggest complaint is that there wasn't a natural stopping point, and it continued for about 50 extra pages than held my interest.
January 15, 2018
Excellent, well-written book with strong characters I cared about. A rich story of family history, secrets, and deep betrayals that keep you glued to the audiobook. A beautiful tapesty of several generations of Native Americans and African Americans woven so seamlessly, you'll be sad the book is over. I highly recommend this one to anyone who enjoys historical fiction or nonfiction.
January 5, 2015
How can I express my gratitude to Lalita Tademy for digging up and writing down this story of Cow Tom and Rose for the world? I have always loved that Lalita thinks of stories in terms of generations, and as a result she develops plot like no other writer, living or dead. For those of us with the blood of Africans and Indians swirling around in our veins, in whatever portion, this is perhaps the only - but is certainly the best-written - chance we have to read about “American” heroes of African or Indian descent that deserve a place in history but have been ignored because of their socioeconomic position and/or their ethnicity. That she chooses to explore these tales through the lens of how families develop and discover their own way, in the face of adversity, in beautiful prose that squeezes your heart - that is even more unique. Anyone of any race, gender, age, or creed deserves the chance to look at amazing humans from the past through the lens she provides, and I feel confident that, no matter whether you can tie your bloodline back to Creek Indians, former slaves, or the wealthy white Europeans who subjugated them, you will be moved and changed by the brutal truth systematically erased by the revisionist histories that filled our school textbooks. I have always enjoyed Lita’s work, but Citizens Creek is my runaway favorite. In her brilliant words, from here on out, “We make our own tradition.”
January 19, 2015
I read this book on the recommendation of a friend and I'm so glad I did. Like many other readers, I did not know that Creeks and Seminoles owned black slaves. This is the story (historical fiction) of Cow Tom and the legacy he left through his granddaughter, Rose. The author takes us on the journey of Cow Tom as he grows up, becomes a translator for the military, is lied to by the government, marries, raises a family and becomes the first African Creek Indian Chief. Although it is a lengthy book, the author only spends time on details when important to the story; hence, there are times when you begin a new chapter and it's three or five or ten years in the future. We learn of the trials and hardships the Creeks went through, how they were treated, or mistreated, how families were broken apart and made whole. Perhaps their legacy can best be summed up by the words Rose spoke to her son "You are braver than you know. You are special. You will make your way in this world". A beautiful story, and a lesson in history we should all be exposed to.
April 9, 2015
Astonishing. So good I'm kind of stunned.
Honestly, my only criticism is I wish it was longer. I would especially have relished more time spent on Cow Tom and Harry Island's experiences in Washington, DC. But basically this novel is perfect.
I really appreciate that the storytelling is linear. I imagine there would have been a strong temptation to tell Cow Tom's story as a series of flashbacks, but I think the way it's written works much better. No temporal gimmicks, just powerful, graceful storytelling.
Another thing Lalita Tademy does really well is bringing the reader into a place of empathy with her characters. Even when a character makes a decision that leaves you wanting to yell "Nooo!", you understand WHY. Their motives feel so plausible, their wants and limitations so human and relatable. This is just such a good book.
Honestly, my only criticism is I wish it was longer. I would especially have relished more time spent on Cow Tom and Harry Island's experiences in Washington, DC. But basically this novel is perfect.
I really appreciate that the storytelling is linear. I imagine there would have been a strong temptation to tell Cow Tom's story as a series of flashbacks, but I think the way it's written works much better. No temporal gimmicks, just powerful, graceful storytelling.
Another thing Lalita Tademy does really well is bringing the reader into a place of empathy with her characters. Even when a character makes a decision that leaves you wanting to yell "Nooo!", you understand WHY. Their motives feel so plausible, their wants and limitations so human and relatable. This is just such a good book.
November 28, 2014
Citizens Creek is the 3rd book I have read by Lalita Tademy. She writes historical fiction, and in this book tells the story of Cow Tom and his family through the 19th century. Cow Tom is begins as a slave to a Creek chief, whose linguist skills for his chief and later the US Military provide him with the resources to buy his freedom. He is a well respected man and eventually becomes the first black chief of the Creek nation. Cow Tom passes his skills and his stories to his granddaughter Rose and the story continues through her. An excellent book, telling a little known aspect of American history.
May 12, 2015
I've been a fan of Tademy since Cane River. However, I didn't love this one. I felt there were very powerful moments in the story, then sometimes I found it hard to follow. For example, I wasn't aware that the main protagonist was not of Creek decent until way into the book, but maybe that was the point. I did enjoy the voyage of Cow Tom from slave to freedman to Chief, and how strong all the women in his family were, even if the strength was somewhat overshadowed by all of the feats made by Cow Tom. I really enjoy historical fiction, so I'm glad she gave the of legacy Cow Tom and his granddaughter Rose a new voice.
April 27, 2015
The unveiling of history is so impactful when uncovered through the eyes of someone that lived the experience. I love historical fiction and no one does it better than Tademy in Citizens Creek. The plight of the Native American during the removal is well-documented but their slaves journey and the fact that many owned slaves is one of many of Americas forgotten chapters. The struggle of Cow Tom's family was tangible....I felt as if I were part of each step and struggle his family endured. Good historical fiction always inspires me to do further research, beginning a new journey of discovery. I'm excited to see what I uncover....
May 31, 2016
Big trad publisher: Let's take an inherently interesting story and smash the potential, then finish it off by bad editing as to content and form. Eg, the narrative lurches from one episode to the next with sudden time shifts and little transition to gentle the shift.
Obvious, consistent grammatical errors which the author should have caught, if not editors, along the way. Eg, 'demur' instead of 'demure'; 'accidently' rather than -ally; principle rather than principal. So much for any claim that the big trad publishing houses have superior editing and production. Even the map in the endpapers is not helpful, in omitting the sites of much of the action
Obvious, consistent grammatical errors which the author should have caught, if not editors, along the way. Eg, 'demur' instead of 'demure'; 'accidently' rather than -ally; principle rather than principal. So much for any claim that the big trad publishing houses have superior editing and production. Even the map in the endpapers is not helpful, in omitting the sites of much of the action
May 29, 2017
Citizens Creek is the third of Lalita Tademy's books that I have read. Tademy's books are always well-researched, well-written, and engrossing. This book was no different. I can't convey how much I loved this book! I felt like I was in Rose's shoes as I read the book. Lalita Tademy is one of my favorite authors. I would recommend everyone to read all three of her books, Cane River, Red River, and Citizens Creek.
January 13, 2015
I struggled through this book. The historical content is incredibly rich and fascinating. However, the personal story line was not engaging and the characters never became real. Hence my struggle. Historical fiction is my favorite genre and unfortunately this one fell flat on the "fiction" part. If you are new to Tademy, Cane River is truly a marvel of fact and fiction.
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