*This year marks the 50th anniversary of Toni Morrison’s first novel, “The Bluest Eye.”
Oprah Winfrey chose the work for her book club 30 years ago, and TODAY’s Jenna Bush Hager, who says it’s her favorite book, spoke with the TV titan about their mutual love of the story.
The novel takes place in Morrison’s hometown of Lorain, Ohio, and tells the story of a young African-American girl, Pecola, who grows up during the years following the Great Depression. Set in 1941, the story tells that due to her mannerisms and dark skin, she is consistently regarded as “ugly.” As a result, she develops an inferiority complex, which fuels her desire for the blue eyes she equates with “whiteness” and beauty.
“To be able to read Toni Morrison … is one of the greatest joys in life,” Oprah says.
Winfrey and Bush Hager, who kicked off 2020 together via a Weight Watchers event in January, also chat about the trying months that followed that outing.
Watch below:
We Publish News 24/7. Don’t Miss A Story. Click HERE to SUBSCRIBE to Our Newsletter Now!