Austin, Texas – Oprah Winfrey has chosen “Matriarch,” a memoir by Tina Knowles, as her latest book club selection. The personal memoir delves into Knowles’ life journey, from her upbringing in segregated Texas to raising music icons Beyoncé and Solange. During an appearance on “CBS Mornings,” Winfrey commended the memoir for its intimate yet relatable nature. She praised Knowles for sharing her story in a way that resonates universally.
Knowles, known as “bad ass Tenie B” in her youth, expressed both excitement and nervousness about unveiling her story to the world. The memoir originated as a much lengthier project, beginning with 1,000 pages before being condensed to better connect with readers. Knowles emphasized the importance of telling her own story without infringing on the narratives of others.
In sharing her experiences, Knowles hopes to inspire others to delve into their family histories and legacies. She explained her desire to leave a lasting narrative for future generations, particularly since she did not know her own grandparents. The memoir also delves into Knowles’ enduring marriage to Mathew Knowles, the father of Beyoncé and Solange, revealing personal anecdotes about their relationship and the impact on their children.
Knowles detailed her parenting journey, highlighting the challenges of raising two talented daughters in the public eye. She emphasized the importance of balance and communication in her children’s relationship, a concept she instilled in them from a young age. The memoir divulges intimate details about Knowles’ childhood, including encounters with racism and the significance behind naming Destiny’s Child.
Reflecting on motherhood, Knowles described it as the most crucial role in life, underscoring the need for intentionality in raising children. Despite her rebellious past, she approached parenting with a deliberate mindset to ensure she did not “screw things up.” “Matriarch” is now available for readers, with Knowles set to embark on a book tour to promote her work, sharing more insights on “The Oprah Podcast.”