Oprah Selects Tina Knowles’ ‘Matriarch’ for Her Book Club

CHICAGO, IL — Oprah Winfrey announced on April 22, 2025, that she has chosen Tina Knowles‘ memoir, “Matriarch,” for her latest book club selection. The book, which debuted this week, offers a deep and personal look at Knowles, the mother of global superstar Beyoncé, as well as a successful entrepreneur, fashion designer, and philanthropist.

Winfrey praised Knowles for her inspiring journey, saying, “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’s release comes just in time for Mother’s Day.

Knowles, 71, began writing her memoir over a decade ago, recording her thoughts during travels between New York and Houston. Reflecting on her life, she said, “I just started thinking about mortality, and ‘I’m not gonna be here forever.’” Her writing experience, she admitted, felt like “having a baby.”

The memoir details Knowles’ upbringing in segregated Galveston, Texas, where she faced numerous challenges but drew strength from a lineage of resilient Black women. She candidly shares her breast cancer diagnosis in 2022, describing it as a pivotal moment. “After surgery and treatment, I am cancer-free — and daring to dress in sheer mesh after undergoing a reduction. That was my silver lining,” Knowles noted.

In “Matriarch,” she also discusses her influence in the formation of Destiny's Child, the girl group that launched the careers of her daughters. Knowles recalls critical moments, such as cutting her hair to ensure Beyoncé looked perfect for their first video, “No, No, No (Part 2).” She reflects on the obstacles her family faced in the music industry and their behind-the-scenes efforts to attain success.

Addressing rumors surrounding Beyoncé’s career, Knowles said, “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.” In the memoir, she emphasizes the importance of familial bonds and the lessons learned through her mother’s strength.

During a conversation with Winfrey, Knowles expressed her joy at being selected for the book club, recalling her surprise when Winfrey called. “When I heard her voice, I cried!” Knowles said. The interview will be available on Winfrey’s YouTube channel.

As discussions about “Matriarch” continue to gain traction, readers are eager to engage with Knowles’ story, which celebrates the strength and resilience of Black women and their legacies.