A Good Neighborhood by Therese Anne Fowler

I read this book in about two days - that is how riveting it was for me.  I had some problems with it initially.  Some characters are stereotypes, I know, but I still was totally engaged. I thought I might be able to predict how the book would end, and I was SO WRONG!

I recommend reading this book if you are interested in racial issues.  I don't want to spoil any of the plot, so I won't say much more about it.  

Summary from Publisher:  

A Good Neighborhood asks big questions about life in America today—what does it mean to be a good neighbor? How do we live alongside each other when we don't see eye to eye?—as it explores the effects of class, race, and heartrending love in a story that’s as provocative as it is powerful.

The Other Black Girl by Zakia Dalila Harris

A very different book that takes on real issues that Black women, and just women in general, face.  It puts everything in a crazy twisty plot that takes the reader by surprise. It is written in a way that is sometimes not really accessible to everyone, I think, so be prepared to feel confused from time to time.   I don't think that this book is for everyone.  Here is the glowing npr review. 

Just Like You by Nick Hornby

 

Lucy, a 40+ year old divorcee with two sons, starts a romantic relationship with a 22 year old guy, who also is black. He works in the local butcher shop, part time, and she first hires him as a babysitter. The boys love him! And when they start a romantic entanglement, it gets tricky. But it's interesting and funny and a very entertaining read. I won't give away the end!