Wendy H. (donkeycheese) -
A small book that packs a big punch, Before You Suffocate Your Own Fool Self is a compilation of short stories about being African-American or mixed-race in modern-day America. The stories have very compelling and realistic characters who find themselves struggling between cultures, relationships and ideas.
I found the stories to be humourous, entertaining and well-thought out. A story about a father trying to re-connect with his daughter, and realizing he doesn't know her as well as he thought he did. This story opens up with his roof falling in and quickly caught my attention. A unique glimpse at the relationship between parent and sibling as the mature and lead their own life.
A young girl spends the summer with her grandmother, whom is white. She doesn't care for the way Tara, who is from Brazil, wears her hair in cornrows. In fact, she tries to fit into both cultures but it is a struggle. A struggle that creates tension in her family.
There are many more short stories that are all intriguing and thoughtful. Author Danielle Evans certainly has the knack to write an insightful, yet entertaining work. Whether coming of age or learning hwo to adapt to new surroundings and find your unique piece of society, Before You Suffocate Your Fool Self is a must read!
I found the stories to be humourous, entertaining and well-thought out. A story about a father trying to re-connect with his daughter, and realizing he doesn't know her as well as he thought he did. This story opens up with his roof falling in and quickly caught my attention. A unique glimpse at the relationship between parent and sibling as the mature and lead their own life.
A young girl spends the summer with her grandmother, whom is white. She doesn't care for the way Tara, who is from Brazil, wears her hair in cornrows. In fact, she tries to fit into both cultures but it is a struggle. A struggle that creates tension in her family.
There are many more short stories that are all intriguing and thoughtful. Author Danielle Evans certainly has the knack to write an insightful, yet entertaining work. Whether coming of age or learning hwo to adapt to new surroundings and find your unique piece of society, Before You Suffocate Your Fool Self is a must read!
