This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
Homebodies: A Novel by Tembe Denton-HurtsPublication Date: May 2, 2023
Publisher: Harper / HarperCollins
Pages: 320
Goodreads
Source: From the Publisher
Genre: Fiction / African American & Black / Women
Rating: ★★★
Synopsis:
Urgent, propulsive, and deeply insightful, Homebodies is a thrilling debut novel about a young Black writer whose world is turned upside down when she loses her job in media and her searing manifesto about racism in the industry goes viral.
Mickey Hayward dreams of writing stories that matter. She has a flashy media job that makes her feel successful and a devoted girlfriend who takes care of her when she comes home exhausted and demoralized. It’s not all A-list media parties and steamy romance, but Mickey’s on her way, and it’s far from the messy life she left behind in Maryland. Despite being overlooked and mistreated at work, everything finally seems to be falling into place—until she finds out she’s being replaced.
Distraught and enraged, Mickey fires back with a detailed letter outlining the racism and sexism she’s endured as a Black woman in media, certain it will change the world for the better. But when her letter is met with overwhelming silence, Mickey is sent into a tailspin of self-doubt. Forced to reckon with just how fragile her life is—including the uncertainty of her relationship—she flees to the last place she ever dreamed she would run to, her hometown, desperate for a break from her troubles.
Back home, Mickey is seduced by the simplicity of her old life—and the flirtation of a former flame—but the life she left behind in New York refuses to be forgotten. When a media scandal catapults Mickey’s forgotten letter into the public zeitgeist, suddenly everyone wants to hear what Mickey has to say. It’s what she’s always wanted—isn’t it?
Insightful, funny, and deeply sexy, Homebodies is a testament to those trying to be heard and loved in a world that refuses to make space, and introduces a standout new writer.
REVIEW
When I first picked up Homebodies: A Novel by Tembe Denton-Hurst, I had the expectation that it would primarily revolve around the infamous letter written by the main character, Mickey. However, to my pleasant surprise, this book goes beyond that initial premise and delves deep into Mickey’s various relationships, her experiences as a black woman, her queerness, and the significant roles that all these aspects play in shaping her life.
From the very beginning, this book had me hooked. Once I started reading, I found myself completely captivated by the story, unable to tear my eyes away from the pages. In fact, I was so engrossed in Mickey’s journey that I ended up finishing the entire book in just one sitting. The narrative skillfully explores the complexities of Mickey’s life, drawing the reader into her world and making us feel like we are right there alongside her, experiencing every triumph and setback.
What struck me the most was how, despite not sharing many similarities with Mickey, I still found myself identifying with her on a deep level. As a reader, I couldn’t help but cheer her on and root for her throughout the book. There were moments when I wanted to reach into the pages and give her a high five for her accomplishments, and there were other times when I wished I could shake some sense into her when she made questionable decisions.
The author’s portrayal of Mickey’s character is so vivid and authentic that it evokes a strong emotional response. I questioned her choices, pondered her motivations, and felt a genuine connection to her journey. By the time I reached the end of the book, Mickey and her life had left an indelible impact on me in ways that I never expected.
In summary, Homebodies: A Novel is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of identity, relationships, and the complexities of navigating one’s own path. It is a book that will resonate with readers on multiple levels, regardless of their background or experiences. Tembe Denton-Hurst’s storytelling prowess and her ability to create deeply relatable characters make this a must-read for anyone seeking a compelling and impactful literary experience.
