The Only Black Girls in Town

Alberta is thrilled to learn that the new family next door is black, and they have a 12-year-old daughter named Edie. However, her fathers warn her that not all skinfolk are kinfolk. Despite their differences, the girls discover a collection of secret journals in Edie's attic that reveal shocking and painful secrets about racism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 27 May 2021
Publisher: Little, Brown & Company

For years, Alberta has been the sole black girl in her town, a beach-loving surfer with a tight-knit circle of friends. Among them is her best friend Laramie, a kindred spirit who understands her better than anyone else. However, there are certain aspects of Alberta's life that even Laramie finds difficult to comprehend.

The arrival of a new family at the Bed and Breakfast next door brings a glimmer of hope to Alberta. To her delight, the new owners are black, just like her. They also have a 12-year-old daughter named Edie, who shares Alberta's love for the beach and sports.

Alberta is convinced that she and Edie will become instant friends, bonding over their shared interests and carefree attitudes. However, her father's words ring in her ears: "All skinfolk ain't kinfolk." He cautions her about the potential differences between people of different backgrounds, reminding her that not everyone will understand or accept her.

Despite the warning, Alberta remains optimistic about her new friendship with Edie. She sees herself as an outgoing and sporty girl, while Edie is portrayed as a moody and mysterious Wednesday Addams character. Alberta's attempts at humor often fall flat, leaving Edie confused and unimpressed.

One day, while exploring Edie's attic, the girls stumble upon a collection of secret journals. Intrigued by the mysterious contents, they decide to delve deeper into Edie's past. As they read through the pages, they discover shocking and painful secrets that have been hidden away for years. The journals reveal the role that racism played in shaping Edie's life and the struggles she has faced as a result.

The girls are deeply affected by what they read, and their friendship is tested as they grapple with the painful reality of racism. They realize that their differences may be more significant than they had initially thought, and they must learn to accept and understand each other's perspectives.

Through their journey of discovery, Alberta and Edie learn to appreciate each other's unique qualities and strengths. They realize that their friendship is based on more than just their shared interests or backgrounds but on their ability to support and understand one another through thick and thin.

In the end, Alberta and Edie emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before. They have learned the importance of empathy, understanding, and acceptance, and they are committed to making a positive impact in their community and beyond. Their story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, true friendship can thrive and that together, we can overcome even the most challenging obstacles.

Weight: 274g
Dimension: 133 x 194 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780316456401