Let Us March On: An Unforgettable Historical Novel with a Timely Social Justice Theme, Be Inspired by Lizzie McDuffie's Courage and Tenacity!

By Shara Moon

Devoted wife, White House maid, reluctant activist…

A stirring novel inspired by the life of an unsung heroine, and real-life crusader, Lizzie McDuffie, who as a maid in FDR’s White House spearheaded the Civil Rights movement of her time.

I’m just a college-educated Southerner with a passion for books. My husband says I’m too bold, too sharp, too unrelenting. Others say I helped spearhead the Civil Rights movement of our time. President Roosevelt says I’m too spunky and spirited for my own good.

Who am I?

I am Elizabeth “Lizzie” McDuffie. 

 And this is my story…

When Lizzie McDuffie, maid to Eleanor and Franklin D. Roosevelt, boldly proclaimed herself FDR’s “Secretary-On-Colored-People’s-Affairs,” she became more than just a maid—she became the President’s eyes and ears into the Black community. After joining the White House to work alongside her husband, FDR’s personal valet, Lizzie managed to become completely indispensable to the Roosevelt family. Never shy about pointing out injustices, she advocated for the needs and rights of her fellow African Americans when those in the White House blocked access to the President.

Following the life of Lizzie McDuffie throughout her time in the White House as she championed the rights of everyday Americans and provided access to the most powerful man in the country, Let Us March On looks at the unsung and courageous crusader who is finally getting the recognition she so richly deserves.


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Published Feb 4, 2025

336 pages

Average rating: 8.2

15 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

@sweettea_and_a_book
@sweettea_and_a_book
7/10 stars
Let Us March On is a fascinating historical fiction account of Elizabeth McDuffie, a Black woman whose work as a White House maid for FDR led to her becoming a trusted confidante/advisor to the president and a bridge for sharing concerns of the Black community. Her husband, “Mac”, also worked as FDRs valet. It’s ironic that even during the height of racism, this president had Black people working closest to him! Now there’s no Blacks allowed. SMH! I really enjoyed this story and Lizzie's plight: she simply wanted to do her job well but felt the need/pressure to bring concerns that Black people faced to the president's attention. Black activists leaned on and sometimes pushed Lizzie to take their concerns to the president; but Lizzie wasn't a political figure. I liked the fondness FDR had for Lizzie and how they shared wise quotes with each other that would spark earnest discussions. I feel that Lizzie's grace and candor worked in her favor in becoming a trusted source for the president. She led with facts, and the urgency that Black rights are human rights.  Great story! It was a bit slow, but I enjoyed reading about this unlikely friendship and the plight of Black people during this time in history. I haven’t come across this book on IG which is why it was so important for me to highlight it. Books like this give me great pleasure to share with others!!
Stacerse
Stacerse
9/10 stars
Loved every minute of this book.

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