Book Review: The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl

Click to set custom HTMLThe Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl by Issa Rae
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

We all know Issa Rae’s comedy writing skills from her hit HBO show Insecure. Some of you may also know her from her original show on YouTube The MisAdventures of Awkward Black Girl. I knew she was a great comedy writer for the screen, but I didn’t know about her memoir writing skills. I was not disappointed to find that her memoir was just as funny, heartwarming, and eye-opening as her shows. Issa Rae’s collection of essays take us through a journey for what it was like growing up as an awkward black girl in America especially with immigrant parents. She talks about her lack of dance skills and hair issues growing up. Then she delves into some more emotional topics about her parents’ divorce and how she dealt with her father having a new woman in his life. My favorite essay in this book is “Connecting with Other Blacks” where she lists many stereotypes of black people and how she learned to engage with each type. Not only is she actively breaking down stereotypes in this piece using humor, but she is also showing that not all black people are the same and there are different ways to be black. This makes the book relatable to me as a person of color because it is part of our constant struggle to prove to others that we’re all individuals. As an immigrant, I also related to her experiences of going to visit her family in Senegal and growing up with two cultures. We all love Issa Rae, so I don’t have to tell you all how amazing this book is. Just go read it if you haven’t already.

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