A More Perfect Party

"As more Black women run for office, the Democratic Party is being charged to recognize the value of Black women—our shared ideals, our ability to create impact, and our deep understanding of what the American people urgently need." ~ pg. 143

A More Perfect Party had me at the first line. It tells the background and details of April 29, 1972. A private whimsical event held in Beverly Hills with a guest list full of surprises. Hosted by Diahann Carroll for Shirley Chisholm's 1972 presidential campaign. I could feel the magic in the room from the pages of this new political nonfiction book. Juanita Tolliver's descriptive writing transported me to this party as if I were really there, carrying on conversations with Hollywood stars, activists, feminists, media moguls, comedians, music executives and the like.

Being the Bates Brat that I am, I already knew facts about Shirley Chisholm. We used to play a competition called Bates Battle where we learned little known Black History facts and battled for a prize every February. It was the highlight of the school year. Fast forward umpteen years later and the history I studied stuck with me. So while reading about Shirley Chisholm in A More Perfect Party, it was somewhat of a refresher.

"Sisterhood is both a balm and a source of power." ~ pg. 123

But MSNBC political analyst Juanita Tolliver taught me facts that had me highlighting and reading twice! Each chapter begins with a quote and highlights one of the guests at the party. No spoilers here—you have to read to find out who was there! I had no idea about Shirley Chisholm's artistic talents. She wrote poetry, played the piano, was a dancer and designed clothing. Who knew that Diahann Carroll was so much more than the Black Godmother of Hollywood? Her connections and networking quite impressive. And how fitting to include the roles that Barbara Lee and Maxine "reclaiming my time" Waters played in coordinating the lavish event.

Most importantly, the book delves into the values that each woman holds and the clear parallels between their careers. Also clearly stated is the parallel to our current state of politics in 2024. Before Vice President Kamala Harris, there was Shirley Chisholm. I recommend A More Perfect Party for many reasons. Perfect title. Perfect account of events. Perfect context. Perfect power to the people nod. Perfect time to publish. 

Happy Early Pub Day, Juanita Tolliver! A More Perfect Party will be available Tuesday, January 14, 2025.

Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie

Title: A More Perfect Party 
Author: Juanita Tolliver
Published: January 2025
Pages: 174
Edition: Galley
Genre: Political Nonfiction
Rating: 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤