June 12, 2019

One Night in Georgia


"Not only do we have to contend with white racists, we also have to contend with racism within our own race. The lighter you are, the better you are is slave plantation bullshit." ~ 21%

It is the summer of 1968 (before my time). It is an unfortunate part of our history marked by the tragic assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., race riots and political protests. Zelda Livingston, Veronica Cook and Daphne Brooks head to Atlanta for their senior year at Spelman College.

As is the case for most longtime friends, the three women come from different backgrounds. Zelda comes from a line of freedom riders. Veronica grew up privileged and wealthy, strongly believing in racial uplift. Daphne lost her black mother to suicide and was abandoned by her white father. These young black women have every intention to create lasting memories on this road trip.

I cannot imagine having to travel with a special guidebook to find racially friendly gas stations, food or rest stops. Yet these women had to. Things start going awry as they reach the Mason-Dixon line. A racially hostile situation leaves a white person dead and one of the girls holding the smoking gun.

"Do something spontaneous for once in your boring life. Don't think, do." ~ 6%

Chickadee and I often talk about how not much has really changed between the 60s and today. The world is still divided by race. Blacks are still stereotyped and wronged. Black men are often mistaken for real criminals all because of a general description. And Black women hold families together carrying the burdens on their bare shoulders. It is disheartening. Reading what little I did of One Night in Georgia was a reminder.

If that was not clear enough, let me say it directly: I DNF (did not finish) One Night in Georgia. The premise seemed promising but it was way too much dialogue. Enough saying; more describing! I read further than my 50-Page Rule because I really wanted to get through it but nope. I hope someone else has better luck getting through it.

Happy Early Pub Day, Celeste O. Norfleet. One Night in Georgia will be available Tuesday, June 18.

Disclaimer: This book was received directly from publisher for review purposes only. In no way does it influence my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins.

Title: One Night in Georgia
Author: Celeste O. Norfleet
Published: June 2019
Pages: 304
Edition: Galley
Rating: DNF

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