Description

Born in 1812, free woman of color Henriette Delille resisted her family's efforts to steer her toward a traditional life as the mistress of a white man. Instead she pursued a calling to care for slaves, the sick, and the poor, and established a religious community for women of color. As a result of her work, she is the first African-American candidate for canonization. This middle-reader historical novel offers a fascinating glimpse into her life and into the history and unique culture of the free people of color in New Orleans.

Set in the New Orleans French Quarter during the nineteenth century, this fictional biography follows the spiritual journey of Henriette Delille, a strong-willed free woman of color who founded the Sisters of the Holy Family.

The story begins in 1823 when Henriette is ten years old. Though dazzled by the opulence of quadroon balls and affluent New Orleans society, she dedicates her life to helping the less fortunate, especially slaves. Henriette remains steadfast in her desire to live a moral life, despite her family's disapproval.

In an attempt to extend her acts of kindness, she organizes a community of women who help her with charitable works. The Sisters of the Holy Family aim to educate slaves, care for the sick, and feed the hungry. During the Civil War, Henriette's health deteriorates; however, she works through her weakness, never wavering from her duty to help others, until she passes away in 1862.

Using the unique culture of New Orleans as a backdrop, Henriette Delille: Rebellious Saint provides a glimpse into such customs as the plaï¿1/2age system, voodoo practices, and the culture clash between Americans and the French and Spanish. The text is interspersed with French phrases, offering an authentic feel to this engaging story of a young woman whose acts set her on the path to sainthood.