'One of the most haunting books you could ever wish to read...it is stunning - moving, exciting, and wonderful' Lenny Henry Set in the deep American south between the wars, this is the classic tale of Celie, a young poor black girl.

Raped repeatedly by her father, she loses two children and then is married off to a man who treats her no better than a slave.

She is separated from her sister Nettie and dreams of becoming like the glamorous Shug Avery, a singer and rebellious black woman who has taken charge of her own destiny.

Gradually Celie discovers the support of women that enables her to leave the past behind and begin a new life.