Thicker Than Water by Kerry Washington: More Than Olivia Pope
A layered, thoughtful memoir that goes far beyond the public persona. Best experienced as an audiobook. Come for Olivia Pope, stay for the revelations.
Keep reading
Romp by Ada Barumé Review: Not Quite the Bonkbuster, But Still a Fun Ride
Romp by Ada Barumé is a light, character-driven read with a diverse cast and a strong central premise, but if you’re expecting full-on 1980s bonkbuster energy, you might find it holds back until the final stretch.
Keep reading
Sister of Mine by Marie-Claire Amuah | A Ghanaian British Perspective on Identity and Family
I went into Sister of Mine thinking I was getting a fairly straightforward story about family. It’s not that. It’s much more layered, and sits in that slightly uncomfortable space of identity, belonging, and the things families choose not to say out loud.
Keep reading
My Book Rating System Explained (Fiction, Non-Fiction and Memoirs)
What this post covers How I rate fiction books (1 to 5 stars) How I rate non-fiction books How I rate memoirs and biographies What each star rating actually means How to interpret my book reviews
Keep reading
Boys, Drama & Detroit: A Black Queer Story That’s Giving Everything
Aaron Foley’s Boys Come First is that book—the one that had me laughing, cringing, and shaking my head like, “Y’all really out here living like this?” It’s a messy, hilarious, and brutally honest look at friendship, love, and trying to keep it all together when life insists on falling apart. But more than that, it’s a refreshing and necessary take on…
Keep reading
A Journey Through Storytelling: Roots and Legends – Book Review
Roots and Legends: Folktales from African Culture is a vibrant, enchanting blend of African and African American folklore that will captivate readers of all ages. As someone who grew up with Anansi’s clever escapades and the mischievous tales of Brer Rabbit, I was delighted to discover even more of the rich oral traditions that this collection offers. Each story begins with a…
Keep reading
A Revolutionary Classic Reborn – Ama Ata Aidoo’s Our Sister Killjoy Still Speaks Truth to Power – Book Review
Some books resonate across generations, their themes refusing to be silenced. Ama Ata Aidoo’s Our Sister Killjoy, first published in 1977 and now reissued by Faber Editions in 2025, is one such novel. A searing critique of European imperialism, alienation, and the disillusionment of African intellectuals abroad, this book remains as urgent and thought-provoking as ever. For those who revel in…
Keep reading
A Love Letter to Black Chicago: A Review of Energy Never Dies by Ayana Contreras – Book Review
Chicago. A city of rhythm, resilience, and undeniable influence in shaping Black culture. Yet, despite its significant contributions, it is often overshadowed by the artistic legacies of New York and Los Angeles. Energy Never Dies: Afro-Optimism and Creativity in Chicago by Ayana Contreras is a powerful rebuttal to this neglect—an evocative and insightful celebration of the city’s creative and cultural legacy.…
Keep reading
Banana Republic: Unpeeling the Layers of Capitalism and Racism – Book Review
I went into Banana Republic by Ben Brisbois expecting an interesting take on science and the environment, but I wasn’t prepared for just how much I’d learn. This book introduced me to the history of South America in a way I’d never explored before. I had no idea how damaging banana cultivation was—not just to the environment, but to the farmers…
Keep reading
Long Players by Tom Gatti: A Music-Lover’s Delight, but Missing a Beat – Book Review
As a fan of both music and literature, Long Players by Tom Gatti immediately piqued my interest. The premise is simple yet captivating: a collection of essays where writers share the one album that has been a touchstone in their lives. For someone like me, who loves exploring the deep connections between art forms, this book promised to be an immersive experience. And…
Keep readingSomething went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
Elaine Adu-Poku 