The Other Black Girl

by Zakiya Dalila Harris
The Other Black Girl cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Crime
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Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 8040
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-31
  • ISBN: 9781982160135
  • Publisher: Atria Books
  • Published: 2021-06-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Other Black Girl is a gripping and thought-provoking debut that delves into the microaggressions and isolation experienced by a young Black woman working in a predominantly white publishing house. When a new Black colleague arrives, the dynamics shift dramatically, leading to a series of unsettling events that challenge the protagonist's perceptions and sanity. The novel is praised for its urgent pacing, sharp social commentary, and twist-filled narrative, making it a standout in contemporary fiction. It has been widely recognized by major publications and media outlets, cementing its place as a must-read thriller of 2021.

Reviews
Reddit - BlackReaders · u/BookLover123 · 2021-08-30
thought-provoking 4.20

The book is funny with a good plot and provides great social commentary on working in all-white environments. It's a thought-provoking and entertaining read.

u/BookLover123 on Reddit praises 'The Other Black Girl' for its humor and engaging plot. They appreciate the book's social commentary on the challenges of working in all-white environments, finding it both thought-provoking and entertaining. The reviewer highlights how the book's blend of humor and serious themes makes it a compelling read. They note that the novel's unique perspective and entertaining storytelling make it a great choice for readers looking for a thoughtful and enjoyable read.

Quick quotes

    To not only be funny with a good plot, but it also gave really great social commentary.

    Thought-provoking and entertaining read.

    A compelling read with a unique perspective.

Book Club Chat · 2021-06-17
edgy 4.50

This edgy novel is unlike anything ever read before, making it a must-read. It offers a unique and captivating story that keeps readers engaged.

The reviewer at Book Club Chat describes 'The Other Black Girl' as an edgy and unique novel that stands out from other reads. They emphasize how the book's originality and captivating storytelling make it a must-read. The reviewer appreciates the novel's ability to keep readers engaged with its twisty and suspenseful plot. They highlight how the book's fresh perspective and compelling narrative make it a standout choice for book clubs.

Quick quotes

    An edgy novel that is unlike anything I've ever read before.

    A must-read with a unique and captivating story.

    Twisty and suspenseful plot that keeps readers engaged.

The Guardian · Claire Lowdon · 2021-06-16
audacious 4.00

This novel is a fresh and original take on race and class in the publishing industry. It blends office satire with thriller elements, creating a unique and engaging narrative.

Claire Lowdon praises 'The Other Black Girl' for its audacious and original exploration of race and class within the publishing world. She highlights how the book cleverly merges office satire with thriller elements, making it a standout read. Lowdon appreciates the novel's ability to tackle serious themes while maintaining a gripping and entertaining story. She notes that the book's unique perspective and clever plotting make it a memorable and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    A fresh and original take on race and class in the publishing industry.

    A clever and entertaining blend of office satire and thriller.

    A standout debut that tackles serious themes with a deft touch.

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