Patsy

by Nicole Dennis-Benn
Patsy cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Literary Fiction
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  • ID: 5940
  • Added: 2025-10-27
  • Updated: 2025-10-27
  • ISBN: 9781631495632
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2019-06-04
  • Reviews: 3

Patsy, a woman from Jamaica, embarks on a journey to New York to reunite with her oldest friend, Cicely, and to live openly as a lesbian. The novel beautifully captures her struggle as an undocumented immigrant working as a nanny, while her daughter, Tru, back in Jamaica, grapples with abandonment and confusion. /n/nWritten in a captivating blend of English and patois, Patsy's story is a poignant exploration of self-discovery, the American dream, and the intricate relationship between motherhood and personal freedom. The novel has been widely acclaimed for its compassionate portrayal of a woman's quest for love and identity, filling a significant void in contemporary literature.

Reviews
The Black Book Blog · 2020-05-17
heartfelt 4.50

The authenticity of the novel is astounding, with its rich use of patois and deep cultural insights. It is a heartfelt and deeply moving story.

The reviewer is captivated by the authenticity of the novel, particularly the use of patois and the rich cultural details. They describe the book as a deeply moving and heartfelt story that resonates on many levels. The reviewer also highlights the emotional impact of the narrative, noting how it takes the reader on a journey that is both poignant and enlightening. The authenticity of the characters and their experiences is praised, making the book a standout in its exploration of identity and belonging.

Quick quotes

    The authenticity of this novel was astounding. It literally took my breath away.

    The patois. The culture. I loved this book with my whole heart.

    It is honest, complex, and brilliantly descriptive.

The Guardian · 2019-08-29
compelling 4.00

The novel is a compelling saga of two women's determination to thrive despite obstacles. It captures the complexities of immigration and identity with vivid prose.

This review highlights the novel's absorbing narrative, focusing on the unyielding determination of its two female protagonists. The reviewer praises the book's ability to depict the multifaceted experiences of immigrants, noting the vivid and evocative writing style. The story's emotional depth and cultural richness are particularly commended, making it a standout read. The reviewer also appreciates the way the novel explores themes of freedom and the search for a better life, all while maintaining a strong narrative drive.

Quick quotes

    Patsy is a thoroughly absorbing saga of two female protagonists' unstoppable determination to thrive, no matter what obstacles are placed in their way.

    Dennis-Benn's descriptions of sex are compelling – among the most honest and affecting you will find.

    With renewed hostility to newcomers in the US, this novel is a timely and necessary exploration of the immigrant experience.

The New York Times · 2019-06-12
powerful 4.25

The novel vividly portrays how the body shapes character and plot, offering an emotionally astute and gifted narrative. It is a powerful exploration of identity and freedom.

This review emphasizes the novel's vivid portrayal of how the body influences character and plot, highlighting the emotional depth and insightfulness of the narrative. The reviewer praises the book's powerful exploration of identity and freedom, noting its emotionally astute and gifted storytelling. The reviewer also commends the novel's ability to delve into the complexities of the immigrant experience, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read. The rich cultural details and authentic characters are particularly noted for their impact.

Quick quotes

    One of the novel's finest achievements is how vividly and insistently the body shapes not just character but plot.

    Emotionally astute and gifted, Dennis-Benn's writing is a powerful exploration of identity and freedom.

    The novel offers an unfiltered glimpse into the realities that undocumented Caribbean people face in the US.

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