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66 pages 2 hours read

Queenie

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Candice Carty-Williams

Queenie

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

330

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London, England • 2010s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams follows Queenie Jenkins, a 25-year-old Jamaican-British woman navigating life in London after a traumatic breakup. As she deals with her past traumas, dysfunctional relationships, and career challenges, Queenie embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing, supported by her close friends and the gradual realization of her self-worth. The narrative addresses themes of sexual violence, racism, mental health, and abuse.

Emotional

Challenging

Contemplative

Heartwarming

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.0

176,451 ratings

70%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Reviews for Candice Carty-Williams’ Queenie highlight its compelling portrayal of a young Black woman navigating life’s challenges. Critics praise its humor, emotional depth, and exploration of mental health and identity. However, some find the protagonist’s decisions frustrating. Overall, it’s lauded for its relatable characters and unapologetic exploration of complex themes.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Queenie?

A reader who would enjoy Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams is someone who appreciates contemporary, character-driven narratives exploring themes of race, identity, and mental health. Fans of Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid will resonate with its introspective and socially relevant storytelling.

4.0

176,451 ratings

70%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Queenie Jenkins

A Black Jamaican woman in her mid-twenties, Queenie navigates personal and professional challenges while working for a newspaper in South London. She contends with childhood trauma and her mental health, seeking growth through therapy.

One of Queenie’s best friends and colleagues, known for her optimistic outlook, which sometimes leads to misunderstandings but ultimately showcases her support for Queenie.

Seen largely through Queenie’s memories and experiences, Tom is Queenie’s ex-boyfriend whose relationship with her is complicated by family tensions and her personal struggles.

Queenie’s friend from college, known for her strong opinions and occasional insensitivity, offering insights into Queenie’s life while grappling with her own issues.

A confident and assertive childhood friend of Queenie’s, she works at a bank and offers unconditional support, dealing with men by setting high standards and refusing poor treatment.

A colleague Queenie has a brief office encounter with, who reveals selfish and exploitative traits, creating further turmoil in her professional life.

Involved with Queenie and portrayed as deceptive and aggressive, he is later revealed to have a significant and problematic connection to another character.

Queenie’s boss at the newspaper, who provides a mix of support and criticism, reflecting the tension between Queenie’s ambitions and workplace realities.

Queenie’s grandmother, a stable and nurturing presence who helps reconnect Queenie with her Jamaican heritage and provides both food and tough love.

Queenie’s mother, with whom she has a strained relationship due to past abuse but ultimately seeks reconciliation and understanding as they both heal.

A quiet yet impactful figure in Queenie’s life, he offers support when Queenie starts attending therapy and aids Veronica in understanding its importance.

Queenie’s religious aunt, who, despite her conservative views, provides a steady and nurturing presence, offering practical support when needed.

Queenie’s young, internet-savvy cousin who identifies Queenie’s mental health challenges early on and provides support and encouragement throughout the story.

Book Details
Pages

330

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London, England • 2010s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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