We Are Not Like Them: A Novel
Told from alternating perspectives, an evocative and riveting novel about the lifelong bond between two women, one Black and one white, whose friendship is indelibly altered by a tragic event—a powerful and poignant exploration of race in America today and its devastating impact on ordinary lives.
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Community Reviews
I finished this book a few days ago but wanted to have some time to think about it before writing a review. I will first say it is extremely well written. I loved the alternating POV's of Jen and Riley, lifelong childhood friends. Jen is white and Riley is black. Their friendship has gone through the usual ups and downs over the years, but their relationship is about to be forever changed when a young Black unarmed teenager is shot and killed by white police officers, one of whom is Jen's husband and Riley is the journalist assigned to the story.
There are obvious themes that be discussed throughout this book; racism, prejudices, biases, white privilege, police brutality to name a few. I believe the authors (who are real life black and white friends) give great insight into each character's perspective and life. But I also felt like it was stereotypical. Both women face their own struggle during this conflict. Overall, I liked the story, but it was full of clichés for me.
There are obvious themes that be discussed throughout this book; racism, prejudices, biases, white privilege, police brutality to name a few. I believe the authors (who are real life black and white friends) give great insight into each character's perspective and life. But I also felt like it was stereotypical. Both women face their own struggle during this conflict. Overall, I liked the story, but it was full of clichés for me.
Happily Booked for May was an absolute blast! Huge shoutout to everyone who joined in on the reading journey this month, came to our gathering, and those who are looking to join the club in the future! Your energy made it special! 🗣️🫶🏽
Just a reminder—Happily Booked is an inclusive space for women, where every voice matters! Each of you brings unique perspectives, and my hope is that we can all challenge our ways of thinking—myself included!
This year, we’re all about celebrating Black Women authors, and wow, was yesterday’s conversation powerful! 🖤 We dove deep into “ We Are Not Like Them, written by co-authors Christine Pride and even though we ran out of time, the discussions on friendship, loyalty, race, love, and justice were just the tip of the iceberg! We touched on some serious topics like systemic racism, prejudice, microaggressions, privilege, and police brutality.
What stood out to me was the split opinions on the book—some ladies adored it while others had strong critiques. But that’s what makes our club so fantastic! Everyone had the chance to share their insights, and it’s amazing to see how some left with new perspectives they hadn’t considered before. A massive thank you to all the incredible women (and kiddos) who filled the room with their voices last night! (Being honest… sitting amongst other black women in the room & hearing their different experiences…. That was so empowering & enlightening!!! I pray you always feel safe & welcome!🙏🏽 )
And let’s give a big shoutout to Loving Co. for hosting us! We’re excited to support this wonderful space and hope others come to enjoy it as well. Friends, you MUST check out Loving Co. ASAP! The vibes are truly welcoming and perfect for everyone. Please go and show your support! ✨📚❤️
Also… if you’re interested in any of our future book clubs… please be sure to comment a message in the comment section. I’ll be in touch ❤️
I liked the two different perspectives. It made me feel a lot of emotions from Riley’s perspective being a black woman and feeling the same way about how things are in the world. I hate how real it was but overall it was a great read!
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