Rebecca, Not Becky: A Novel

This was a tough book. It was phenomenal. But it’s one of those reads I think that’s designed to make you uncomfortable for a minute. It covers a lot of hard topics. We get to see two women tackling being mothers and wives, while also trying to find a place and time for themselves. But that’s not it… these women are also dealing with mother in laws who are struggling with Alzheimer’s and are responsible for their care. After forcing you to sit with all those difficulties the book also makes you look at the racial issues the book is centered around.

Let me just say it does this beautifully. We get to see two vastly different perspectives: Rebecca who runs the diversity committee but can’t even face her own inability to be a show more true advocate for her “friends.” Then we get Dee who is struggling with her daughter being the only African American in her school. I loved seeing the ways the authors had each one grappling with home life and the racial dynamics. It was fascinating that even though they had so much in common, Rebecca not being able to be a true advocate really impacted the relationship.

The book was a huge gut punch in the way it handled topics. It is one of those books that you have to sit with after it’s over.. because wow. I think I really appreciated the growth of both women… and I loved how the authors chose to end the book. I really believe this is one people should read and sit with for a bit. show less

Two authors writing about Black/White relationships in a prosperous Virginia suburb. Told from the perspective of two women this is an interesting story but something was a little off. I really liked the dementia unit described in the book.