My Book Review of Clap Back (Black Stars #5)
Clap Back by Nalo HopkinsonMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well written but heartbreaking
There was a time when it was Neanderthal vs Cro-Magnon. Today, it sends for many, white vs black. Truth is, it’s always one vs another.
The author writes: “Ain’t we people, too? she thought. Wouldn’t freeing us be a step toward freeing all humanity?”
The answer is a resounding YES!!
But… (there is a “but” because human beings suck) it will never be enough until we STOP PITTING EACH OTHER AGAINST ONE ANOTHER.
Yesterday, it was two types of dominate hominids. Today, it’s various races. It is a cycle that needs to be broken. Until we accept each other AS WE ARE – all earthlings – no one wins.
What I liked about this book was the passion. It was timeless despite being futuristic, not because it was white against black, but it was the struggle for equality – freedom. It was questioning how to get that, and trying to make people see beyond self.
What I disliked, and found truly heartbreaking, was the proposed resolution. I don’t want to say too much, as I don’t want to give anything away, but I think it’s safe to say NO ONE SHOULD HAVE TO CHANGE TO FIT IN. We ALL belong here – we are all God’s children and earth beings to us ALL. Diversity is life blood!
For a sad as this story made me, there’s realism in it. Our people and cultures are broken. This short story expresses the pain and extremes some feel they must take to break the cycle of abuse. It’s a good way to let others experience it without doing permanent harm. So, yes, READ THIS!!
