A review by kkm0112
We Are Not Like Them by Christine Pride, Jo Piazza

challenging reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

This book is both reflective in its plot as well as completely unsubtle in its message, and I have to admit I’m mixed on my feelings about it. The story focuses on a lifelong friendship between two women, one white (Jen) and one Black (Riley), after an incident in which Jen’s police officer husband is involved in the shooting of an unarmed Black teenager and Riley’s future as a television reporter - as well as her bonds to her own community and family - are tested by her reporting of this event. You can probably imagine some of the messaging that you’ll get hit over the head with in this book - I very much appreciated the message, although sometimes it did feel like it could have been written about more gracefully. I do think this is the right book at the right time, though, and a worthwhile read particularly for those who are willing to have their journey to allyship challenged. (CW: racism and racial slurs, microaggression, gun violence, infertility). 
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