By: Iranola Ojuolape
Growing up, it was difficult for me to come to terms with my awkwardness. I would dread most social interactions because my true personality didn’t always coincide with those of my peers. Issa Rae’s “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl,” is a hilarious and relatable memoir consisting of Rae’s personal experiences that help maneuver through life as an awkward black girl. This book tackles some of the most taboo topics in an inviting and humorous way.
In “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl,” Rae lists the most cringe-worthy anecdotes of her incredibly awkward life. This well-written memoir is both informative and colloquial which speaks well to Rae’s track record. Rae is an actress, writer, director and producer who showcased her immense talents through her hit web series, “Awkward Black Girl,” which aired from Feb. 2011 to Feb. 2013. Rae now showcases her expertise through her Emmy-nominated HBO series, “Insecure.” In nearly all of her productions, Rae embraces and emphasizes her awkward antics.
In this memoir, Rae addresses an array of topics most can relate to. While reading this book, it seemed as if some of the pages were ripped out of my personal diary. Rae tackles unfortunate party experiences, dating mishaps, weight fluctuation, her inability to dance, and even the trials that come with having an African dad; all of which I have experienced first-hand. As I flipped through the pages, I found myself randomly belting out in laughter as I was reminded of some of the most interesting and embarrassing moments of my life.
Rae also addresses issues often overlooked in our society. She acknowledges the pressures black women face, pertaining to our naturally kinky hair, behavior in the workplace, and surviving as a minority in social settings. Rae even provides advice, helping readers navigate through these weird situations likely to occur at some point. She uses her experiences to encourage others to gain confidence and celebrate the most unconventional parts of themselves. Rae debunks some of the most outrageous social claims, like the notion one must strive to reach unrealistic beauty standards. Instead, she calls all to love themselves, regardless of what they are told.
This memoir also calls for self-evaluation. Rae’s vulnerability and inability to sugarcoat causes her to expose some of the most intimate and personal details of her life, including the details behind her parents’ divorce. After ignoring the effects of the divorce for months, Rae admits that she believed that sharing the details of her newfound two-parent home would ruin her family’s perfect reputation. She even reveals how and why the divorce caused her to resent her mother. This mishap led to perhaps the most emotional and transparent moment in the book, a conversation between Issa and her mother exposing the truth behind her parents’ divorce.
“The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl” is a compelling, nostalgic memoir that will have you flipping through the pages faster than you could imagine. This memoir differs from most books because each chapter serves as its own mini story. Although this book has a steady flow, reading it in chronological order is not a mandate. Each chapter consists of its own independent thought, exclusive experience and lesson, making it easy to read. This relatable and enjoyable book highlights some of the most unconventional elements of life, making you realize you’re probably a little more awkward than you think. It is an essential read to anyone who wants to learn more about Issa Rae, and themselves.
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