THE OTHER BLACK GIRL
by Zakiya Dalila Harris
I picked this book up after slogging through The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James hoping for something light and easy. The Other Black Girl provided the antidote I needed with its fast moving plot and quirky, contemporary style. But also the book opened my eyes to some of the social and professional struggles young Black women face, particularly in the world of publishing.
The story jumps around between a few narrators and timelines, but is primarily about Nella, a young editorial assistant at a famous publishing house. She has been the only person of color at the company for some time and is thrilled when another young Black woman is hired. But almost immediately, strange things start happening, including threatening notes appearing on Nella’s desk.
As Nella works up the nerve to begin investigating, the author uses supporting narratives to reveal a twisted and puzzling backstory. And suddenly this plucky office drama turns into sci-fi/horror, reminiscent of the incredible movie, Get Out. I was taken very much by surprise, but I was along for the ride and in the end found myself thoroughly entertained. (Lily)
