A review by marissasa
Passing by Nella Larsen

challenging dark reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This novella was interesting and gripping, and definitely caught me off guard on a couple occasions. I went in not knowing anything except the very basic premise that the story was about a woman, Clare, who chooses to pass as white as an adult. I was surprised to find it's more about her childhood friend Irene, who is equally fair but actively claims her Black heritage, and their reunion. Clare brings intrigue, doubt, and unrest into Irene's life but Irene is captivated by Clare's beauty, danger, and recklessness like a moth to a flame. Despite being short, the story really does pack a punch with its tension, stark contrast between the two main women, and themes of race, motherhood, loyalty, control, and security.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings