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zinelib 's review for:
The Blackwoods
by Brandy Colbert
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
The Blackwoods are Black Hollywood royalty--four generations of actors, starting with Blossom. She is followed into the business by his son, Abe, Abe's sons and one of his daughters in law, and the current scion, TV star Ardith. Blossom and Ardith are joined in the narration by Ardith's cousin, Hollis, who isn't in the business.
Stories about rich and famous people are usually compelling, and this one has the requisite secret that may paint them in a negative light.(Not me, I think Abe's father was controlling and didn't fight for his son and so wronged himself--not Blossom's fault. Total douche.)
It's interesting to think about family dynasties (nepo babies) in the context of Blackness--people who otherwise don't have access to power and are due more than an equal share of the wealth they and their ancestors built.
I've struggled with some of Colbert's books in the past--finding less depth and nuance than I wanted, but this book was more compelling and rich.
Stories about rich and famous people are usually compelling, and this one has the requisite secret that may paint them in a negative light.
It's interesting to think about family dynasties (nepo babies) in the context of Blackness--people who otherwise don't have access to power and are due more than an equal share of the wealth they and their ancestors built.
I've struggled with some of Colbert's books in the past--finding less depth and nuance than I wanted, but this book was more compelling and rich.