Reviews with content warning for Death of parent - Passing

This incredible novella is such a whirlwind. There is so much emotion and turmoil hidden among its pages, much like the turmoil hidden among the time period its set in. All I can say is, remain unspoiled for this one.

Content Warnings

laurenleigh's review against another edition

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emotional reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

I love me some jazz age tales of debauchery and excess, but this important work brings light to another side of 1920’s American culture. Black Americans faced innumerable injustices, and Larsen’s story here zooms in close to analyze two lives in particular, Irene and Claire. Both are Black, both are light enough to “pass” as white, but only one is actively doing so on a regular basis. The dynamic between these two was complex and multilayered, even in such a short piece. The part that struck me most was Irene’s inner turmoil about her double consciousness. If she has to pick one, where do her loyalties lie? To herself and her family? Or to her race? What if what you want or need is at odds with what is best for your community? I highly recommend checking this book out if you liked Brit Bennett’s The Vanishing Half. I couldn’t help but compare the two, and I’m sure this work influenced Bennett. Robin Miles was, as usual, a perfect narrator. Whenever someone asks me for narrator recommendations, she’s always on my list!

Content Warnings

laurenw's review

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reflective tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

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