57 pages • 1 hour read
The Blacker the Berry: A Novel of Negro Life
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Book Brief
221
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1920s
1929
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Blacker the Berry follows Emma Lou Morgan, a young African American woman with dark skin, as she grapples with colorism and racism within both Black and white communities from her childhood in Boise to college life at the University of Southern California and eventually in 1920s Harlem, reflecting the challenges of identity and self-worth amid pervasive societal prejudices. The book includes depictions of racial slurs and discusses the sexual violence endured by enslaved women.
Gritty
Melancholic
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
3,412 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Blacker the Berry by Wallace Thurman is praised for its bold exploration of race, colorism, and identity within the African American community. Thurman's incisive social commentary and vivid character portrayals stand out. However, some readers find the narrative pacing uneven and the prose occasionally dated. Overall, it remains a significant Harlem Renaissance work.
Who Should Read The Blacker the Berry?
Readers who enjoy Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston or If Beale Street Could Talk by James Baldwin will be drawn to The Blacker the Berry by Wallace Thurman. This novel appeals to those interested in the complexities of African American identity, colorism, and societal expectations in the early 20th century.
3,412 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alva
Alva
Emma Lou's long-term romantic partner, admired for his appearance but reveals complex motivations and relationships with multiple characters in Harlem.
Hazel Mason
Hazel Mason
Emma Lou's acquaintance from USC, who defies societal norms and expectations through her demeanor and cultural expression.
Samuel and Maria Lightfoot
Samuel and Maria Lightfoot
Emma Lou's maternal grandparents who have a history of colorism that influences the protagonist's life and decisions.
Arline Strange
Arline Strange
A white actress in Harlem who employs Emma Lou, providing a glimpse into race relations and cultural dynamics of the era.
Braxton
Braxton
Alva's roommate, noted for his struggles and negative attitude towards Emma Lou, reflecting broader societal prejudices.
Geraldine
Geraldine
Alva's girlfriend with lighter skin, notable for her relationship with Alva and her impact on Emma Lou's journey.
Gwendolyn Johnson
Gwendolyn Johnson
Emma Lou's friend in Harlem, known for advocating for equality and highlighting issues of colorism.
Benson Brown
Benson Brown
A church acquaintance of Emma Lou's, whose character embodies the societal values and expectations of his time.
Kitchen Campbell
Kitchen Campbell
A writer and Emma Lou's mentor in Harlem, who plays a significant role in her educational and career development.
221
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1920s
1929
Adult
18+ years
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