Terry McMillan

Terry McMillan is an American author, known for her best-selling novels which are often characterized by strong female protagonists. She gained fame for her novel 'Waiting to Exhale' which was adapted into a film. Her work often explores issues of race, gender, and relationships.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Waiting to Exhale

    This novel follows the lives of four African-American women living in Phoenix, Arizona, each of whom is "holding their breath" as they navigate their personal and professional lives. The women are all in their mid-thirties, successful, and single, struggling to find love in a world that seems to offer few prospects. Through their friendship, they support each other and learn to let go of their pasts, "exhale", and move forward.

  2. 2. Disappearing Acts

    "Disappearing Acts" is a poignant narrative that delves into the complexities of a modern relationship, set against the backdrop of Brooklyn, New York. The story follows the lives of two African-American protagonists—a struggling construction worker and an ambitious music teacher—as they navigate the turbulent waters of love, ambition, and societal expectations. Their romance is marked by raw honesty and vulnerability, as they confront personal demons, financial hardships, and the challenges of an interracial relationship. The novel offers a gritty, realistic exploration of love and the transformative power of self-discovery and resilience in the face of adversity.

  3. 3. Mama

    This novel delves into the life of an African American family through the eyes of a hardworking mother striving to provide for her children in the face of adversity. With a mix of humor and grit, the matriarch confronts the challenges of raising her children in an environment fraught with economic hardship, addiction, and tumultuous relationships. As she navigates the complexities of love, sacrifice, and resilience, the narrative presents a poignant exploration of the bonds that hold a family together and the personal growth that often comes from life's most trying circumstances.