The Girl I Am, Was, and Never Will Be: A Speculative Memoir of Transracial Adoption

The Girl I Am,Was,and Never Will Be is a novel by Shannon Gibney that explores the experiences of being a mixed-Black transracial adoptee and a child raised by a white, closeted lesbian. It is a tale of two girls on two different timelines, bridged by a mysterious portal, and their shared search for a complete picture of their origins. Gibney surrounds the story with reproductions of her own adoption documents, letters, family photographs, interviews, medical records, and brief essays on the surreal absurdities of the adoptee experience.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 03 January 2024
Publisher: Dutton Books for Young Readers

Shannon Gibney, the acclaimed author of Dream Country, returns with a captivating novel that delves into the intricate tapestry of her life. The Girl I Am, Was, and Never Will Be weaves together Gibney's personal experiences as a mixed-Black transracial adoptee with a fictional narrative centered around Erin Powers, the name she was given at birth. Raised by a white, closeted lesbian, Erin's journey unfolds against the backdrop of a diverse and complex America.

At the heart of this novel lies a profound exploration of identity and belonging. Through the alternating perspectives of Shannon and Erin, readers are invited to witness the intricate nuances of their lives, their struggles, and their triumphs. The story unfolds on two distinct timelines, occasionally intersecting through a mysterious portal, allowing for a glimpse into their shared search for a complete understanding of their origins.

Gibney's writing is a testament to her talent for capturing the essence of human experiences. She surrounds the central narrative with a rich tapestry of personal artifacts, including adoption documents, letters, family photographs, interviews, medical records, and brief essays that shed light on the surreal and often absurd realities of the adoptee experience. These additions enrich the story, providing a deeper layer of insight and empathy for the characters.

The end result of Gibney's remarkable storytelling is a breathtaking portrait of American life that is rarely depicted in any form. The Girl I Am, Was, and Never Will Be offers a profound exploration of identity, race, sexuality, and family, challenging societal norms and offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of human existence. This novel is a testament to Gibney's ability to create compelling narratives that resonate with readers on a profound level. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the human experience and the diverse tapestry of our society.

Weight: 227g
Dimension: 210 x 140 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780593112014