The Filling Station

In a novel that should be required reading, Miller (THE AMERICAN QUEEN) movingly explores the aftermath of racial trauma and how resilient people can open their hearts again. Read-alikes exploring Black historical experiences include WHEN STARS RAIN DOWN by Angela Jackson Browne and UNDER THE TULIP TREE by Michelle Shocklee.

Miller (THE AMERICAN QUEEN, 2024) doesn't shy away from the hardships the Justices face--racism, unscrupulous developers, sickness-inducing conditions in the rebuilding Greenwood--and Margaret's faith journey is hard-won and convincing. The Tulsa Race Massacre is rarely covered in historical fiction, and this story is an absolutely worthy addition to the genre.

'The 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre is, shockingly, little more than a footnote in history

— because history has always been written by white men. Miller's book, thankfully, reverses that egregious oversight. By making us live through the eyes of two sisters who that suffered catastrophic loss, we viscerally learn how this vibrant Black community fought devastation with resilience, faith, and grit.'

THE FILLING STATION is a compelling contribution to the understanding of Black Wall Street and the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. The depth of research, coupled with Vanessa Miller's ability to bring these historical events to life, ensures that these stories are not only remembered but resonate with readers. So many of the names and places come to life in a way that makes me have to stop reading and process the fact that this event actually happened, and it happened in my community to people I have known.

Through Miller's skillful writing, we see the filling station not only as a notable landmark, one deserving of all Americans' attention, but as a superb metaphor for the people and places that replenish the spirit, if we have the courage to let them in. Definitely recommended.