Memoirs of Race, Color, and Belonging

A new book explores the complex dialogue of race and identity in memoir, examining three generations of biracial African American experiences. It challenges traditional notions of race and belonging and provides a model for interweaving theoretical and personal accounts of color in American culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 174 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

A captivating exploration of the intricate interplay of race and identity is presented in Memoirs of Race, Color, and Belonging. This insightful volume delves into the personal narratives of three generations of biracial African Americans, shedding light on their experiences through their autobiographies. Spanning a chronological journey from Jim Crow America to the Civil Rights era and even touching upon the post-soul and post-Loving v. Virginia generations, the book offers a profound exploration of these complex spaces.

By examining the works of writers such as James McBride, Shirlee Taylor Haizlip, Barack Obama, Toi Dericotte, Natasha Trethway, Rebecca Walker, and Emily Raboteau, Memoirs of Race, Color, and Belonging uncovers the ways in which these memoirists challenge prevailing notions of race and simplistic notions of belonging. Through their contested embodied positions, they utilize their memoirs as sites for narration, inquiry, and protest, challenging the very foundations of identity construction.

The book is organized chronologically, providing readers with a comprehensive journey through the memoirs of different eras. It offers valuable insights into the experiences of individuals during Jim Crow America, the Civil Rights movement, and the subsequent generations, allowing for a deeper understanding of the complexities of race and identity in American culture.

One of the key strengths of Memoirs of Race, Color, and Belonging lies in its ability to encourage new conversations surrounding the visibility of mixed-race individuals and their experiences. Through the use of archives and personal testimony, the book provides a model for interweaving theoretical and personal accounts of color in American culture, fostering discussions that transcend disciplinary boundaries. By challenging the boundaries of traditional narratives, the book encourages a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of the diverse tapestry of American society.

In conclusion, Memoirs of Race, Color, and Belonging is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on the complex dialogue of race and identity. Through its examination of personal narratives and the challenges faced by biracial African Americans, the book provides a valuable contribution to the field of memoir studies. By encouraging new conversations and challenging disciplinary boundaries, it serves as a model for interweaving theoretical and personal accounts of color in American culture. This book will undoubtedly inspire and engage readers, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of race and identity in our society.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032213804