Not so Black and White

LoveReading Says

Exploring racial and cultural tensions in London (especially between African and African-Caribbean communities), and arranged marriage and the education of girls in Kenya, Not So Black and White is a timely, pacey, personal novel. Essentially aimed at teenagers, but with adult main protagonists, this could prompt empathy-building discussion while promoting cultural understanding and exchange.

Precious left Kenya for London six years ago and now advises the Metropolitan Police as a leadership and diversity trainer. From the outset, the vital importance of cultural awareness is highlighted when an officer is surprised to learn that “in Africa, children are taught that it’s rude to look an adult in the eye, but here you think someone looks guilty if they don’t look you in the eye.” Working with a committed young community officer, Precious is involved with a number of vibrant initiatives when a promising book-loving Ghanaian boy she knows falls victim to gang violence. After forming a bond (and more) with Adrian, a journalist covering the story, Precious opens up about her difficult childhood in Kenya, revealing the inequalities and domestic violence meted out by her tribal leader father. When Precious is compelled to revisit her Kenyan village with Adrian at her side, she faces difficulties from her past alongside present cultural conflicts. Back in London, both their lives changed, a ground-breaking initiative sees Precious unite different communities across London and Kenya.

With proceeds of book sales going to The Nasio Trust, an inspirational charity that empowers communities in western Kenya through providing education, improving health, and developing commerce through sustainable income generating projects, this was co-authored by The Nasio Trust’s CEO, Nancy Mudenyo Hunt, and partly based on her personal experiences, which explains the personal insights threaded through the novel.

Joanne Owen

Find This Book In