The Other Black Girl

The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris

Reviewed by Mimi
📒📒📒

This was not what I expected. Nella is an editorial assistant at a large publisher. She happens to be the only Black employee, that's until Hazel arrives. At first, Nella wonders if she has a bit of an ally. Someone she can get to back her up when calling out stereotypical Black characters in novels. But no, Hazel appears to be more undermining than supportive. Nella is rattled by her presence and suspects foul play.

The concept behind this novel is an interesting one. Should employees from the same background (whether it be race, gender or sexuality) stick together in order to create their power? What happens if they don't? And when someone comes in and destroys the status quo and disrupts your own career expectations, how do you deal with it?

As a book, it was an easy read, and the story flowed. It was engaging and really made me think.

Without spoiling how it all ends, the direction it went in was not what I expected and I don't know how to feel about it! It was strange and maybe that was the point? Either way the ending left a lot to be desired.

I liked Nella though and felt her frustration when certain things were happening. It is a thought-provoking and entertaining read.!