Rebecca, Not Becky: A Novel

In the vein of "Such a Fun Age," a novel about two upper-class stay-at-home mothers, one white and one Black, living in a perfect suburb that explores motherhood, friendship, and the true meaning of sisterhood amidst the backdrop of America's racial reckoning. DeAndrea Whitman and her husband Malik move to Rolling Hills, Virginia, motivated by circumstance, leaving her comfortable life in Atlanta. She struggles to adjust to her new community, but when Rebecca Myland, chair of the Parent Diversity Committee, learns about the Whitmans, she sees it as an opportunity to champion racial diversity. Rebecca's daughter, Isabella, and Nina become best friends, and DeAndrea reluctantly joins Rebecca's committee. However, when racial sentiments rise in Rolling Hills, the two women find they have more in common than they thought.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2024
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

In the captivating realm of "Such a Fun Age," a novel emerges that delves into the lives of two upper-class stay-at-home mothers, one white and the other Black, residing in a seemingly idyllic suburb. This literary masterpiece explores the intricate tapestry of motherhood, friendship, and sisterhood, all set against the backdrop of America's ongoing racial reckoning.

DeAndrea Whitman, her husband Malik, and their five-year-old daughter, Nina, find themselves embarking on a new chapter in their lives when they relocate to the upper-crust white suburb of Rolling Hills, Virginia. Their decision to move stems from circumstantial circumstances rather than a deliberate choice. DeAndrea, deeply saddened by her departure from the vibrant Black oasis of Atlanta, grapples with the challenges of adapting to her new community. Amidst the onset of her mother-in-law's Alzheimer's diagnosis, her daughter's entry into kindergarten, and the overwhelming whiteness that surrounds her, DeAndrea finds herself struggling to find her footing. In an effort to navigate the transition, her therapist suggests a unique challenge: cultivate a white girlfriend.

Upon discovering her new neighbors, the Whitmans, Rebecca Myland, a passionate advocate for racial diversity within the community, experiences a surge of excitement. As the chair of the Parent Diversity Committee at her daughter's school, Rebecca has tirelessly championed diversity, and what could be more fitting than welcoming a brand-new Black family into their midst? Fate intervenes when her daughter, Isabella, and Nina forge an instant connection on the very first day of kindergarten, creating a serendipitous bond between the two families. Rebecca sees this as an opportunity to put her knowledge of antiracism into practice, particularly through the informative social media posts she shares. Furthermore, the Parent Diversity Committee will finally achieve the much-needed diversity it has been striving for.

Reluctantly, DeAndrea agrees to join Rebecca's committee, driven by her therapist's suggestion. DeAndrea can't help but wonder if Rebecca's therapist has advised her to make a Black friend, as the white woman's eagerness borders on excessive. However, as the racial tensions in Rolling Hills escalate, bringing the two women together in a shared cause, they discover that their connection goes beyond just their race.

Through their interactions, DeAndrea and Rebecca delve into the complexities of motherhood, friendship, and the profound impact of societal expectations on their lives. They explore the challenges of raising children in a diverse world, the complexities of interracial relationships, and the importance of standing up for what is right. "Such a Fun Age" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on the experiences of women navigating the intricacies of race, class, and identity in modern America.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780063213586