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
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Elaine Adu-Poku 