In her latest work, Good Dirt, Charmaine Wilkerson delves into the life of Ebby Freeman, a member of one of the few African American families residing in an affluent New England area. The novel revisits themes from her 2022 bestseller, Black Cake. This time, Wilkerson explores the complexities of trauma, public scrutiny, and the significance of ancestral legacies. Released on January 28 by Ballantine Books, the story unfolds through Ebby’s journey from childhood tragedy to adulthood, where she grapples with personal loss and public perception. Wilkerson’s background as a journalist informs her narrative approach, blending historical elements with contemporary issues.

Wilkerson draws inspiration from her past experiences as a reporter, reflecting on the profound impact of interviewing individuals during their most vulnerable moments. She recalls how these encounters made her ponder the resilience required to thrive after such tragedies. In Good Dirt, this reflection manifests through Ebby’s struggle to navigate her romantic failures and the lingering effects of her brother Baz’s death, which occurred during a home invasion that also destroyed a priceless family heirloom—a centuries-old jar crafted by their enslaved ancestor, Moses.

The author’s research into the lives of Black Jacks, enslaved seamen who worked on ships during the 18th and 19th centuries, adds depth to the narrative. Wilkerson highlights the lesser-known roles of African Americans in maritime history, emphasizing their contributions beyond forced labor. Additionally, she explores the mass production of stoneware by both enslaved and free African Americans in the American South, where the soil was particularly suitable for pottery making. Despite restrictions on literacy, these artisans found ways to sign their work, leaving behind tangible marks of their existence.

Through Ebby’s character, Wilkerson examines the duality of identity—how it is shaped by internal perceptions and external judgments. She challenges the notion that identity for people of color is solely defined by physical appearance or cultural origins. Instead, Wilkerson focuses on universal experiences that influence everyone’s sense of self. This theme resonates throughout the novel, reinforcing the idea that true understanding goes beyond surface-level assumptions.

The publication of Good Dirt marks another milestone for Wilkerson, whose debut novel, Black Cake, garnered significant attention. Selected for Oprah’s book club and adapted for television, Black Cake explored familial bonds and hidden histories. For Wilkerson, transitioning from journalism to fiction writing has been liberating, allowing her to explore deeper emotional landscapes without the constraints of traditional reporting. Her confidence in trusting her voice and unique storytelling style has grown, paving the way for more innovative narratives in her future works.