by Kiley Reid
This book is great! The inciting incident takes us to a late night in an affluent grocery store, where Emira, a young black woman, has taken, Briar, her two year old white charge, at the request of Briar’s parents. A “Good Samaritan” tells a security guard the situation “doesn’t feel right” after witnessing them dancing together in the frozen food aisle of the store. The security guard approaches them, asking Emira to remain calm while he calls the police as he believe she kidnapped Briar. From there, all hell breaks loose.
I loved how uncomfortable this book made me! It has so much to offer in regards to racial attitudes, good intentions, and remaining ignorant. It also talks a lot about parenting, privilege, and point of view. What defines family? What is the “right thing” to do?
Emira is a relatable protagonist as she is unsure where her life is going after earning her degree, despite everyone in her life having decided opinions about that destination. She just wants health insurance – as we all do! She is often quiet, but fierce and observant. She is loyal, and her connection and commitment to Briar throughout the book is heartwarming. This is a book we all should read.
Pros & Cons & Potential Spoilers
Pros
- Gives us multiple viewpoints into race and privilege
- Solid girl tribes supporting and uplifting each other
- A modern character refusing the evil of social media
Cons
- Literally cannot think of any…go read the book