Rating: 5/5
Let me start by saying, that the extremely negative reviews for this book feel unfair. If you're looking for some trendy-woke #blackgirlmagic fluff... this ain't it. If you're white and don't like feeling 'seen' when it comes to your casual unchecked racism, this book is not for you.
Queenie is messy. She's sexually irresponsible, insecure, at times immature, and suffers from extreme anxiety while going through a bad break-up. But this book is self-aware. Black women are allowed to be messy and boy-crazy while we figure our shit out, and the author uses this book as a reminder that our flaws don't make us bad people. White female characters have the same traits and it's quirky, but when we do, they are met with harsh criticism and hostility. .Every Black girl has been a Queenie or knows one. I love that this book is about the life of a British Black girl, giving us an interesting look at how Black women in the UK deal with racism, especially the microaggressions we face while dating and in the workplace.
Queenie is, for the most part, surrounded by people who care so much about her. Her best friends Kyazakie and Darcy were there for her at every moment, while providing tough love when needed. Queenie dealt with trauma from her past, which caused a strained relationship with her mother, and contributed to her failed relationships with men. The book had flashback scenes where we got to see the highs and lows of Queenie's relationship with Tom. He wasn't horrible in retrospect, but he should've had bigger balls when defending Queenie against his family's racism. I genuinely felt bad for her, because I know what it feels like to feel like you're pushing people away when they just want to love you. The author also touched on an important topic of therapy and shattering the taboos of seeking mental help in Black families.
Do yourself a favor and give this book a shot. Have an open mind, and patience with Queenie lol. It's worth the read, and a bit humorous at times.
You can find it here on Amazon, or online at your local library.