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Jackie Ormes: The First African American Woman Cartoonist #[nn]

Jan 2008 · The University of Michigan Press · 35.00 USD

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A groundbreaking portrait of resilience and compassion, Jackie Ormes: The First African American Woman Cartoonist (2008) presents a powerful, deeply personal story drawn and written by Ormes herself. In this compelling narrative, Torchy, a woman torn between love and independence, finds herself in peril on a remote jungle plantation before being rescued by Dr. Paul Hammond, a dedicated physician fighting both illness and injustice. As their bond deepens and they confront a community poisoned by industrial neglect, their shared mission becomes one of healing—both medical and moral—leading to a quiet but profound moment of reconciliation and hope. The story is rendered with unflinching honesty and artistry, all by the visionary Jackie Ormes.

Contains 2 stories

Untitled Drama story

4 pp · Drama, Fashion

Torchy BrownAunt ClemmieUncle JeffBonesBumpsBill Robinson [Bojangles]Dinah DazzleTorchy's mother

In this poignant four-page story from *Jackie Ormes: The First African American Woman Cartoonist*, Torchy steps into a vibrant new chapter, leaving the South behind to dance at Harlem’s famed Cotton Club and embrace the cutting-edge fashions of the era. The final panel holds a quiet, powerful moment as she finally reunites with her mother—just as the story begins to unfold.

Untitled Drama story

19 pp · Drama, Advocacy, Fashion, Romance

Torchy BrownEarl LesterDr. Paul HammondFred Fromer (villain, mate on an a tramp steamer)Dr. Paul HammondManu (villain)Le Gran (villain, plantation owner)Colonel Fuller (villain, factory owner)Jamie Fuller

In "null," Torchy flees a love that demands too much, only to find herself in a perilous jungle plantation where danger lurks in the shadows. Rescued by Dr. Paul Hammond, she joins him in a fight for justice at his struggling southern clinic, where the poison of industrial neglect threatens lives—and the promise of healing. As Paul confronts the town’s powerful elite, a quiet bond grows between him and Torchy, leading toward a future they’re determined to build together.