black girl, no magic: Essays and Reflections on Living Whilst Black

Kimberly McIntosh's essay collection explores the systemic injustice that impacts us all, using her own experiences to reveal how it affects us from nuclear families to toxic friendships. It is perfect for fans of Slay In Your Lane, Trick Mirror, and Bad Feminist, and offers a dazzling debut collection that blends the personal and political.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 22 June 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Kimberly McIntosh, a prominent essayist of her generation, has achieved remarkable success with her book. The work showcases her wit, freshness, and vibrant personality, captivating readers from start to finish. Liv Little, a renowned critic, praises it as "witty, fresh, and full of life," emphasizing its ability to resonate with readers deeply. Damian Barr, host of the Literary Salon Podcast, describes it as a book that he would "press in the hands of everybody."

Kimberly McIntosh has led a remarkable life, filled with love, cherished relationships, adventurous travels, and exhilarating parties. However, she has also pondered the unfairness that often prevents people who resemble her from accessing similar opportunities. This essay collection, stemming from years of social policy research and campaign work, amalgamates Kimberly's insights and knowledge. It dispels myths about social mobility for those who conform, delves into the reasons behind her cringe-worthy teenage Facebook posts, and sheds light on the pervasive impact of systematic injustice on our lives.

Through her personal experiences, Kimberly vividly illustrates how injustice manifests in various aspects of our society, including the pressures of nuclear families, the toxic nature of friendships, and the painful experience of witnessing reality television shows like Love Island. This debut collection appeals to fans of popular titles such as Slay In Your Lane, Trick Mirror, and Bad Feminist, as it seamlessly blends the personal and political to convey the story of Kimberly's life and the valuable lessons it imparts.

Kimberly's writing is characterized by its authenticity and honesty. She delves into sensitive topics such as sex, British politics, mental health, intimacy, and race with remarkable clarity and insight. Her words resonate with readers, offering a glimpse into their own selves and providing a sense of comfort and understanding. This collection is a delightful and beautifully written treasure that will leave readers eagerly anticipating more from this talented essayist.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 143 x 223 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008477042