Tina Knowles, the matriarch of the Beyoncé and Solange Knowles family, has written a new memoir titled “Matriarch.” The book chronicles her life story, from her poor upbringing in Galveston, Texas, to her triumphs as a working mom and entrepreneur. Knowles debunks common misconceptions about her family and shares personal stories of trauma, including being diagnosed with breast cancer last summer.
Knowles says she wrote the memoir for her children and grandchildren, so they would understand her story and their ancestors’ history. The book offers a unique perspective on her life, avoiding personal details that might be too invasive or sensitive for her daughters or other family members.
The title “Matriarch” is significant to Knowles, as it refers to her role in her family. She says she’s proud of the legacy she’s built and wants to leave something for future generations. The book explores themes of naming, including how her ancestors’ names were changed over time, and how her own daughters’ names were chosen.
Knowles also talks about the importance of writing about traumatic experiences, such as being subjected to an invasive gynecological exam as a teenager. She says writing about these experiences was healing for her and aims to raise awareness about the need for doctors to be sensitive when dealing with sensitive topics like trauma.
Knowles’ daughters, Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland, have expressed support for their mother’s memoir. Knowles hopes that one day they will write their own memoirs, sharing their stories with the world. Ultimately, “Matriarch” is a story of resilience and determination, showcasing Knowles’ life as a strong matriarch who built something out of nothing.
Source: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/books/story/2025-04-22/tina-knowles-book-beyonce-solange-mom-naming