42 pages • 1 hour read
Caucasia
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Book Brief
432
Novel • Fiction
Boston, Massachusetts • 1970s
1998
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Caucasia by Danzy Senna follows Birdie Lee, a mixed-race girl in 1970s Boston, navigating complex racial identities amid the Black Power Movement turmoil. After her parents' separation and increasing FBI scrutiny, Birdie, who can pass as white, goes on the run with her white mother, assuming new identities. This journey forces Birdie into a profound racial and personal identity crisis that spans years. Sensitive topics include racial identity struggles and familial separation.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Emotional
Challenging
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
9,937 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Danzy Senna's Caucasia captivates with its poignant exploration of racial identity and family dynamics in 1970s America. Critics praise Senna's compelling narrative and rich character development. However, some note occasional pacing issues and a predictable plot. Overall, the novel is lauded for its impactful reflections on race and belonging.
Who Should Read Caucasia?
Readers who enjoy complex narratives of racial identity and family dynamics will be captivated by Caucasia by Danzy Senna. Fans of Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye and Jhumpa Lahiri's The Namesake will appreciate the novel’s nuanced exploration of biracial experiences and coming-of-age struggles set against a backdrop of 1970s America.
9,937 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
432
Novel • Fiction
Boston, Massachusetts • 1970s
1998
Adult
18+ years
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