Oprah Winfrey has selected Tina Knowles' memoir, "Matriarch," for her latest book club pick, a choice that has stirred excitement among fans and readers alike. Announced on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, this memoir offers an intimate look into the life of Knowles, known for her role as the mother of superstar Beyoncé but also as a successful entrepreneur, fashion designer, and philanthropist. Winfrey described Knowles as a global figure whose journey is filled with inspiring twists and turns.
In a statement, Winfrey praised Knowles, stating, "Some of you might know Tina Knowles as the mother of a superstar — as in Beyoncé — but she is also a highly successful entrepreneur, fashion designer, philanthropist, and now author of this fascinating memoir of her journey to become the global figure she is today." The memoir, which was published this week, is available for readers eager to discover the powerful narrative of a woman shaped by her experiences, and it coincides perfectly with the upcoming Mother's Day.
Knowles began crafting her memoir over a decade ago, during quiet moments while traveling between New York and Houston. At the age of 59, she started recording her memories and childhood stories in voice notes on her cellphone, driven by a desire to leave a legacy for her children and grandchildren. "I just started thinking about mortality, and ‘I’m not gonna be here forever,’" Knowles reflected. Now 71, she describes the process of writing her memoir as a deeply personal endeavor. "Writing a book about your life is a scary thing. It’s almost like having a baby," she said.
In her memoir, Knowles candidly shares her journey, beginning with her childhood in segregated Galveston, Texas. She writes about the challenges she faced growing up, including her family's history and the resilience passed down through generations of strong Black women. Knowles also reveals her diagnosis of stage 1A breast cancer in 2022, a moment that she describes as a turning point in her life. "After surgery and treatment, I am cancer-free — and daring to dress in sheer mesh after undergoing a reduction. That was my silver lining," she noted.
The memoir not only recounts her personal struggles but also highlights her role in the rise of Destiny’s Child, the iconic girl group that launched the careers of her daughters, Beyoncé and Solange. Knowles recalls the early days of the group, detailing the sacrifices she made, including cutting her own hair to ensure Beyoncé looked perfect for their first video, "No, No, No (Part 2)." She reflects on the uphill battle her family faced in the music industry, often working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure their success.
In the book, Knowles addresses persistent rumors about her daughter Beyoncé's career, stating, "People oftentimes say that the goal was always for Beyoncé to be solo, but if that were the case, she would have done that out of the gate. She loved being part of a group." She emphasizes that Beyoncé even delayed the release of her first solo album to allow her sister Kelly Rowland to shine.
In addition to personal anecdotes, "Matriarch" serves as a history lesson about the civil rights movement and the cultural significance of Knowles' upbringing. She recounts her mother's struggles and triumphs, shaping her understanding of resilience and the importance of familial bonds. "Matriarchs are filled with the most enduring and ferocious love," Knowles writes, emphasizing the strength of the women in her family.
During a recent interview with Winfrey, Knowles expressed her surprise and joy at being selected for the book club. "When I heard her voice, I cried!" she said, recalling how she was tricked into thinking she was speaking with a printing company when Winfrey called. "Getting the seal of approval from Oprah, and knowing that she read it and loved it, made it all OK. I mean, it’s Oprah!!"
The conversation between Winfrey and Knowles, recorded at a Starbucks in Chicago, is available on Winfrey’s YouTube channel, where they discuss the memoir's themes of Black motherhood, human resilience, and creative genius. This collaboration is part of Winfrey's ongoing partnership with Starbucks, which includes curated book selections and author interviews.
Knowles’ memoir is not just a reflection of her life but also a testament to the power of storytelling within families. She hopes that by sharing her experiences, others will find inspiration and a sense of connection to their own histories. "I want people to see the resilience in my life. I was born really poor. I was born Black in a racist South, but I survived it all and I thrived and I’m here," she said.
As the buzz around "Matriarch" continues to grow, readers are eager to dive into Knowles' compelling narrative, which not only chronicles her life but also serves as a celebration of the strength of Black women and the legacies they create. With Oprah's endorsement, this memoir is poised to resonate with many, offering lessons in resilience, love, and the importance of family.
