A review by jordanrisa
Heads of the Colored People by Nafissa Thompson-Spires

dark funny reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

A unique set of short stories that showcase the various experiences of the Black middle class in America, more specifically in the suburbs near Los Angeles. I actually grew up very close to the cities mentioned in these short stories, which made me feel more connected. The stories highlight a range of black identities and the tensions that come with each one, while covering so much — social media obsession, code switching, self-hatred and internalized racism, police brutality. While it wasn’t my favorite book, I do appreciate the author’s ability to humanize her characters.