46 pages • 1 hour read
Jewelle GomezThe Gilda Stories
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Gilda Stories follows the adventures of an immortal vampire named Gilda as she navigates different locations and time periods in the United States from 1850 to 2050, reflecting significant moments in African American history. The novel explores Gilda's experiences and growth in understanding her vampire nature and her relationship with humanity. Topics in the book include enslavement, violence, and death.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Gilda Stories, by Jewelle Gomez, is widely celebrated for its innovative blend of African American history, LGBTQ+ themes, and vampire lore. Critics praise its lyrical prose and strong character development. Some find the pacing uneven and the narrative structure challenging. Overall, it’s lauded for its rich cultural tapestry and thought-provoking themes.
Who Should Read The Gilda Stories?
Readers who enjoy socially conscious narratives and fresh takes on the vampire genre will appreciate The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gomez. Fans of Octavia Butler’s Kindred or Anne Rice’s The Vampire Chronicles will find this blend of Afro-futurism, LGBTQ themes, and historical fiction compelling and relevant.