In her book "In Search of Our Mothers' Gardens: Prose," Alice Walker reflects on the profound quality of Zora Neale Hurston's work. She emphasizes the portrayal of black individuals as whole, multifaceted human beings, which she believes is often absent in other black literature. Walker appreciates Hurston's ability to present black lives with dignity and complexity, moving beyond stereotypes and simplistic representations.

This perspective highlights the importance of recognizing the depth of black experiences in literary works. Walker's observation prompts a reevaluation of narratives surrounding race, advocating for a richer understanding of black humanity in literature that resonates on a deeper level.