Imitation of Life

Published in 1933, *Imitation of Life* tells the story of Bea Pullman, a white single mother, and Delilah Johnston, an African American maid and single mother, who rear their daughters together and become successful business partners.

They build an Aunt Jemima-like waffle business and an international restaurant empire.

However, their public success brings them little happiness.

Bea is torn between her responsibilities as a businesswoman and those of a mother, while Delilah is devastated when her light-skinned daughter, Peola, moves away to pass as white.

The novel addresses themes of race, femininity, and the American Dream, and it continues to resonate powerfully today despite its controversial elements.