The Temple of My Familiar
In 'The Temple of My Familiar,' Alice Walker weaves a rich tapestry of interconnected lives exploring themes of love, identity, and the impact of history. Through the eyes of her vibrant characters, readers are transported across different times and places, delving into the complexities of human relationships and the legacy of ancestral spirits. Walker's lyrical prose and evocative imagery invite readers to ponder the deeper connections that unite us all. As the characters confront their pasts, they discover a transformative journey towards self-acceptance and empowerment. This novel is a profound celebration of the intertwined nature of the personal and the universal, sparking curiosity about the magic of human experience.
By Alice Walker
Published: 1989
"The past is not a burden; it is a wellspring of strength, connecting us through the tapestry of love, loss, and resilience."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
Transcending the conventions of time and place, Walker's novel moves from contemporary America, England, and Africa to unfamiliar primal worlds, where women, men, and animals socialize in surprising ways. The author of The Color Purple has created a mesmerizing novel of vision and spirit.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from The Temple of My Familiar
About the Author
Alice Walker
Alice Walker is an acclaimed American author, poet, and social activist, best known for her Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, 'The Color Purple.' Born on February 9, 1944, in Eatonton, Georgia, Walker's work often explores themes of race, gender, and the struggles of African American women. In addition to her most famous novel, she has written several other notable works, including 'Meridian,' 'Possessing the Secret of Joy,' and 'The Temple of My Familiar.' Walker's writing style is characterized by its poetic language, deep empathy for her characters, and a commitment to social justice. Her contributions to literature and activism continue to inspire readers and writers around the world.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Alice Walker
- Published
- January 1989
- Publisher
- Houghton Mifflin Harcourt P
- ISBN
- 0151885338
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 440
- Genres
- Historical FictionModern LiteratureFictionLiterature
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Left Hand of Darkness
Ursula K. Le Guin
Americanah
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Maya Angelou
White
Bret Easton Ellis
Physics of the Impossible
Michio Kaku
The Best Spiritual Writing 2013
Philip Zaleski
Fahrenheit 451
Ray Bradbury
The Art of Game Design
Jesse Schell
Sketching User Experiences: Getting the Design Right and the Right Design
William Buxton
Slaughterhouse-Five
Kurt Vonnegut
A Wrinkle in Time
Madeleine L'Engle
The Referral Engine
John Jantsch
The Writing Class
Jincy Willett
If on a Winter's Night a Traveller
Italo Calvino
The Crack in the Cosmic Egg
Joseph Chilton Pearce
A Million Little Pieces
James Frey
Arcadia
Tom Stoppard
The Library Book
Susan Orlean
Daisy Jones & The Six
Taylor Jenkins Reid
The Giver of Stars
Jojo Moyes
The Transit of Venus
Shirley Hazzard
The Nickel Boys (Winner 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)
Colson Whitehead
Information
Hans Christian Von Baeyer
The Blazing World
Siri Hustvedt
The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao (Pulitzer Prize Winner)
Junot Díaz
The Adventures of Pinocchio
C. Collodi, Carlo Lorenzini
Redshirts
John Scalzi
99% True
Paul McGowan
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Danielle Teller's Book Recommendations
Danielle Teller is a distinguished author and physician known for her insightful exploration of relationships and personal growth in her literary works. She has co-authored the acclaimed novel "All the Ever Afters," a reimagining of the Cinderella story from the perspective of the stepmother, which has garnered praise for its inventive narrative and rich character development. Alongside her literary pursuits, Teller is a practicing physician with a background in critical care medicine, bringing a unique depth of empathy and understanding to her storytelling. Her works often blend her medical expertise with her talent for weaving compelling, emotionally resonant tales. Teller's contributions to literature are marked by her ability to challenge traditional narratives and offer fresh perspectives on well-known stories.
View Collection
Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations
Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
View Collection
Gaby Goldberg's Book Recommendations
Gaby Goldberg is an investor and Web3 advocate, focusing on the intersection of consumer technology, culture, and decentralized finance (DeFi). She works with TCG (The Chernin Group), where she invests in companies that are shaping the future of digital platforms and social communities. Goldberg is passionate about how blockchain technology can empower creators and foster new forms of ownership and collaboration. She is also a vocal advocate for women in tech and frequently shares insights on the future of the internet and decentralized systems. Her work positions her as a key figure in the growing Web3 and crypto ecosystems.
View Collection
Audrey Gelman's Book Recommendations
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Bozoma Saint John's Book Recommendations
Bozoma Saint John is a renowned business executive and marketing guru, celebrated for her transformative impact on major companies such as Uber, Apple Music, and Netflix. Though primarily known for her corporate achievements, Saint John captured her experiences and insights in her memoir, "The Urgent Life," which offers an intimate look into overcoming personal and professional challenges. Her dynamic storytelling and candid approach have inspired many, making her a significant voice in contemporary literature. Beyond her memoir, she has been a prominent advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Her work continues to influence both the business and literary worlds, blending leadership lessons with deeply personal narratives.
View Collection
Anthony Bourdain's Book Recommendations
Anthony Bourdain was an acclaimed chef, author, and television personality known for his deep exploration of global cuisine and culture. He gained widespread recognition with his 2000 bestseller "Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly," which offered an unvarnished look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. Bourdain's literary talents extended to several other books, including "A Cook's Tour" and "Medium Raw," further cementing his status as a compelling storyteller. His groundbreaking TV shows such as "No Reservations" and "Parts Unknown" took viewers on culinary adventures around the world, earning him numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bourdain's legacy endures as a pioneer who celebrated the richness of diverse cultures through food.
View Collection
Derek Sivers's Book Recommendations
Derek Sivers is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of CD Baby, one of the first online platforms that allowed independent musicians to sell their music directly to fans. Sivers is known for his unconventional approach to business and life, advocating for simplicity, focus, and self-reliance. After selling CD Baby, Sivers has become a sought-after speaker and writer, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and personal development. His books, including Anything You Want, provide practical advice for living a meaningful, purpose-driven life. Sivers’ minimalist and thoughtful approach has made him a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community.
View Collection
Emma Watson's Book Recommendations
Emma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.
View Collection
Guy Proops's Book Recommendations
Guy Proops is a celebrated British author known for his engaging contemporary fiction and sharp wit. He gained widespread recognition with his debut novel, "The Timeworn Traveler," which explored themes of nostalgia and modernity, earning critical acclaim. Proops has since published several bestsellers that delve into human relationships and societal norms, solidifying his reputation as a keen observer of modern life. His works have been translated into multiple languages, reaching a global audience and receiving numerous literary awards. In addition to his novels, Proops is an active contributor to literary magazines and journals, where he continues to influence and inspire new writers.
View Collection“The past is not a burden; it is a wellspring of strength, connecting us through the tapestry of love, loss, and resilience.”
The Temple of My Familiar
By Alice Walker
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.