In her book club's latest recommendation, Reese Witherspoon kicks off February with a nostalgic novel, "Redwood Court" by DéLana R. A. Dameron. Following January's recommendation, "First Lie Wins," Witherspoon now brings readers another story brimming with memories. 

Witherspoon took to Instagram earlier this week, accompanied by her pet dog Minnie Peal, to unveil her February book club pick. In a video shared on her page and Reese's Book Club account, the actress expressed her excitement about the chosen novel and provided a brief introduction.

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Southern Black Family Life

DéLana R. A. Dameron's debut novel, "Redwood Court," published on February 6, 2024, revolves around Mika Tabor, the youngest member of a Black working-class family. Set in the 1990s in "Redwood Court," a suburban town in South Carolina, the story delves into Mika's captivating family history. From her parents juggling multiple jobs to her grandparents' relocation during the era of Jim Crow, Mika's journey unfolds against the backdrop of a changing South.

In the video, the "Legally Blonde" alum shares her admiration for the book, emphasizing its focus on home and a sense of belonging. Mika takes readers down memory lane, offering vivid vignettes that showcase the richness of Southern Black family stories. Witherspoon invites her followers, saying, 'I can't wait for you to read it,' expressing her enthusiasm for "Redwood Court."

In her Instagram caption, Witherspoon elaborates on the novel's charm, describing it as a nostalgic read. She notes how Mika takes readers down memory lane, sharing vivid vignettes that paint a picture of her Southern Black family. With a sense of nostalgia permeating the pages, "Redwood Court" emerges as a fitting choice to begin the celebration of Black History Month.

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DéLana R. A. Dameron's Accomplishments

The book, set in Columbia, South Carolina, Dameron's hometown, marks her debut fiction book. However, Dameron is no stranger to the literary world, being an award-winning poet with several published poetry collections. She graduated from New York University's MFA program in poetry and has a BA degree in history from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. 

Her first poetry collection, "How God Ends Us," won the South Carolina Poetry Book Prize, chosen by Elizabeth Alexander. Nikky Finney selected her second "Weary Kingdom" collection for the Palmetto Poetry Series. Dameron founded Saloma Acres, an equestrian and cultural space in her South Carolina hometown.

The New York Times commended "Redwood Court" for delivering a captivating choral experience akin to literary masterpieces. The praise, describing the reading experience as wandering down a street and listening to different voices, reflects the book's narrative richness and exploration of diverse perspectives.

Dameron shared that her connection with the Southern region is intricate and carries emotional weight. Despite the complexity, there is a constant sense of respect and affection. Dameron also shared that moving to New York City was a transformative step in learning to love the South and herself more profoundly.

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