40 pages • 1 hour read
We Are Not Like Them
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • Contemporary
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In We Are Not Like Them by Christine Pride and Jo Piazza, childhood friends Riley Wilson and Jenny Murphy navigate the complexities of race and friendship when Jenny's police officer husband, Kevin, is involved in the shooting of an unarmed Black teenager, Justin Dwyer, prompting both women to confront their personal and societal understandings of race and justice. Characters face issues of racial violence and police brutality.
Emotional
Challenging
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
51,938 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
We Are Not Like Them by Christine Pride and Jo Piazza incisively explores race and friendship, receiving praise for its timely and poignant narrative. Critics laud the complex characters and thought-provoking themes. However, some argue the writing lacks depth and feels didactic at times. Overall, it's considered a vital, contemporary read that prompts important conversations.
Who Should Read We Are Not Like Them?
Readers who enjoyed Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng or An American Marriage by Tayari Jones will find We Are Not Like Them by Christine Pride and Jo Piazza compelling. It resonates with those interested in complex friendships, racial dynamics, and contemporary social issues. Ideal for book clubs and thoughtful discussions.
51,938 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jenny Murphy
Jenny Murphy
Riley's best friend who values stability and support, facing personal challenges and societal realities that strain her close friendships.
Justin Dwyer
Justin Dwyer
A young 14-year-old boy who becomes a central figure in the unfolding events after a tragic incident, highlighting systemic issues.
Gigi Wilson
Gigi Wilson
Riley's influential grandmother whose wisdom and guidance continue to affect Riley even after her passing.
Kevin Murphy
Kevin Murphy
Jenny's husband and a police officer whose actions and decisions become pivotal to the story's conflict, impacting his family and community.
Shaun Wilson
Shaun Wilson
Riley's brother, representing familial ties and societal challenges, offering a personal perspective to larger community issues.
Tamara Dwyer
Tamara Dwyer
The grieving mother of Justin, who provides a poignant voice and perspective within the narrative's exploration of personal and societal grief.
336
Novel • Fiction
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • Contemporary
2021
Adult
18+ years
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