Bainy Cyrus's 'Tea and Toil at The Woman's Club' has been honored with the 2024 Literary Titan Gold Award in Nonfiction, marking a significant achievement for the self-published narrative nonfiction that delves into the intertwined histories of the Martin Mansion, the Woman's Club of Norfolk, and the General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC). Launched on November 11, 2023, at The Woman's Club in Norfolk, VA, the book has captivated readers with its detailed account of over fifty years of personal experiences and the 135-year history of the GFWC.
The book not only serves as a memoir but also as a historical document, shedding light on the pivotal role women's clubs have played in societal change. Through meticulous research involving hundreds of newspaper articles dating back to 1900, Cyrus highlights the GFWC's contributions, including raising funds for 431 warplanes during WWII. The Woman's Club of Norfolk, affiliated with the GFWC since its founding in 1905, and the Martin Mansion, owned by the club since 1925, are central to this narrative, connecting local history with broader national movements.
Cyrus, a native of Norfolk and author of the award-winning 'All Eyes, A Memoir of Deafness,' brings her signature honesty and humor to 'Tea and Toil at The Woman's Club.' The book has been praised for its ability to connect with readers on a personal level while providing a comprehensive look at the often-overlooked contributions of women's clubs to community building and social change. A review from IndieReader describes the book as 'a lively, richly detailed book combining memoir and tangled histories,' emphasizing its importance in recognizing the value of 'women's work' as foundational to community development.
'Tea and Toil at The Woman's Club' is now available for purchase online and in select bookstores, offering readers a chance to explore the fascinating history and personal stories that Cyrus has masterfully woven together. For more information about Bainy Cyrus and her work, visit https://www.bainycyrus.com.
