"The problem isn't that Black people are always thinking about race, it's that white people refuse to." ~ 79%
From the author of Queen Sugar, comes a new novel of family dynamics, friendship and loyalty. Babs and Nora became friends through their kids. For over a decade, they've taken morning walks, shared family secrets and gossip. Most of all, Babs (a Black woman) has given suggestions to Nora (a white woman) on how to raise Nathan, her adopted Black son.
Their worlds are turned upside down and the dynamics of their friendship change when the kids have an unfortunate interaction with the police. The aftermath pushes Nathan closer to Babs' family where race, identity and culture is always a conversation. But Nora's boundaries are being pushed. The events that unfold makes readers' question what it means to be a loyal friend and ally.
"White people aren't free either." ~45%
Friends and Family explores themes on themes on themes: race, loyalty, perception, stereotypes, transracial adoption, police brutality, trust and friendship. It may sound overwhelming but the story was surprisingly not all over the place. In fact, it took a while to reach the climax. But when it does, the intensity of the plot builds and holds readers' tight until the end. Well done, Baszile.
I recommend Friends and Family to allies, parents and book clubs. It will spark good conversation on the themes referenced above.
Happy Pub Day to Natalie Baszile! Friends and Family is officially on shelves.
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: Friends and Family
Author: Natalie Baszile
Published: October 2026
Pages: 384
Edition: Galley
Genre: Grown Woman Fiction
Rating: 🖤 🖤 🖤
