By C. Cymone Fourshey
I read parts of two memoirs and a novel, each reflecting a coming of age story. Typically, I read almost exclusively non-fiction as a function of my work and frankly it is what I prefer. The choices I made this weekend, for reading, made me laugh, often out loud, as I moved through each text.
I read stories from the perspective of youth or individuals remembering their youth. The utterly ridiculous things young people say and do for really logical reasons – from a child’s vantage point – leave them utterly misunderstood by adults. Non-fiction I typically read (history) rarely makes me laugh. Coming of age stories are interesting in that there seem to be many common elements, even if the exact experiences take place in different locations and eras. In preparation for a weekend focused on reading, I decided I would send no email. I sent no emails and was hardly online from 6pm Friday until 9pm Sunday, which meant I felt free to do things I wanted, but usually have no time for, or feel like there is no time for on a typical weekend. Ultimately, I ended up resting more than I likely should have, which I may regret if I end up being behind this week.
Title: Black Boy, Born a Crime, When we Were Beautiful
Hours read: 4.5