Sarah Broom was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, a city known for its vibrant music, rich culture, and unique history. Growing up in the city, Broom developed a deep connection to her hometown, which would later serve as the inspiration for her critically acclaimed memoir, The Yellow House.
In her memoir, Broom vividly paints a picture of her childhood home, which was located in a neighborhood called New Orleans East. This area, situated on the eastern side of the city, was built on swampland and was predominantly comprised of African-American families.
Broom’s childhood home, known as the Yellow House, was not just a physical structure but a symbol of resilience and family history. It was a place where multiple generations of Broom’s family lived, laughed, and faced the challenges of life together. The Yellow House stood as a testament to the strength of her family and the enduring spirit of New Orleans.
Unfortunately, the Yellow House was destroyed in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, along with much of the surrounding area. Broom’s memoir documents the impact of the hurricane on her family and their community, as well as the broader issues of race, class, and inequality that the disaster highlighted.
Sarah Broom’s Life
Sarah Broom was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1979. She grew up in the neighborhood of Lakeview.
As a child, Sarah witnessed the impacts and aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which had a profound effect on her life and later inspired her to write a memoir.
She attended the University of North Texas and received a bachelor’s degree in anthropology. After completing her undergraduate studies, Sarah moved to New York City to pursue a career in writing.
While in New York City, Sarah faced various challenges and struggled to fit into the fast-paced environment. However, her experiences in the city shaped her writing style and strengthened her determination to share stories that often go unheard.
Publication of “The Yellow House”
In 2019, Sarah Broom published her highly acclaimed memoir, “The Yellow House.” The book tells the story of her family and their home in New Orleans, which was demolished after Hurricane Katrina.
“The Yellow House” explores themes of family, race, and identity, offering a unique perspective on the history and culture of New Orleans. The memoir received widespread recognition and won several awards, including the National Book Award for Nonfiction.
Legacy and Impact
Sarah Broom’s writing has resonated with readers around the world, shedding light on the experiences of those affected by Hurricane Katrina and exploring the complexities of identity and place. Her memoir continues to be celebrated for its insightful storytelling and powerful reflections.
Living Locations
Sarah Broom lived in various locations throughout her life, each holding its own significance and shaping her experiences.
New Orleans
As a native of New Orleans, Sarah Broom was born and raised in the city. She called this vibrant and diverse city her home for many years. Growing up in New Orleans, she was immersed in its unique culture, rich history, and distinct neighborhoods.
New York City
At the age of 20, Sarah Broom left New Orleans and moved to New York City, seeking new opportunities and a change of scenery. Living in the bustling metropolis of Manhattan, she experienced the fast-paced lifestyle and diverse communities that the city had to offer.
In New York City, Sarah pursued her career in writing and journalism, which eventually led to her acclaimed memoir, “The Yellow House.” Her time in NYC played a significant role in shaping her perspective and providing her with the platform to share her story.
Despite leaving New Orleans and establishing her life in New York City, Sarah Broom’s roots and connection to her hometown remained strong. Her experiences in both cities influenced her writing and deepened her understanding of home, identity, and belonging.
In conclusion, Sarah Broom lived in both New Orleans and New York City, each place leaving a lasting impression on her and shaping her journey as a writer and a woman.
Final Years
In her final years, Sarah Broom continued to live in New Orleans, the city that had shaped her life and inspired her writing. Despite the challenges she faced, including the destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina, Broom remained committed to her community and her writing.
During this time, Broom focused on documenting the history and culture of her beloved city. She conducted extensive research and interviews, gathering stories and anecdotes from both past and present residents. Her goal was to capture the spirit and resilience of New Orleans, drawing attention to the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Writing Career
In her final years, Broom dedicated much of her time to writing. She completed her memoir, “The Yellow House,” which was published posthumously in 2019. The book received critical acclaim and was a finalist for numerous prestigious awards, including the National Book Award for Nonfiction.
Through her storytelling, Broom shed light on the complexities of race, class, and family, exploring the intersections of her own personal history with the broader history of New Orleans. Her memoir provided a powerful and intimate look into the experiences of Black families in the city, grappling with issues of identity, belonging, and home.
Legacy
Sarah Broom’s legacy continues to inspire readers and writers alike. Her work remains an important contribution to the literature of New Orleans and the larger conversation surrounding race and class in America. Broom’s dedication to telling marginalized stories and challenging societal norms serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to create change and foster understanding.
| Key Accomplishments | Year |
|---|---|
| Publication of “The Yellow House” | 2019 |
| Finalist for National Book Award for Nonfiction | 2019 |
