Literary Review- Passin'

Title: Passin’
Author: Karen E. Quinones Miller
Publisher: Grand Central publishing
Publishing Date: 2/15/08
Price: $13.99
ISBN: 0-446-69605-6

If you are looking for your average run of the mill boy meets girl book, then Passin’ is not the book to read. Passin’ is one of the most controversial books written by Karen E. Quinones Miller thus far. You can expect a lot of talk around the topic of this book. This story has color that goes beyond the issue of black and white.

Shanika Ann Jenkins is so light that she is often mistaken for a Caucasian. The family tradition of only marrying those of light skin and good hair are passed down to Shanika giving her blue eyes and blond hair as well. She is very proud of her African American heritage and quick to put anyone who doubts that she is African American in their place—until she applies for a job in New York.

What is she to do when she could get the job of her life but they are only looking to hire a white woman? Does she pass for white? This is what she has to ponder when she interviews at Paxon & Green PR firm.
The company is looking to hire someone that is African American—but they have to look African American (dark skin, thick hair, etc.). But what if she decides to fill out the application and say that she is white?

Life begins to take on a new meaning the moment that she makes her decision causing her to meet new people in high places—Shanika is living the life! One of the highlights of her new found life is meeting Tyrone, who she falls in love with. Things are going great until tragedy strikes and she is forced to reveal her secret life to him and his family. Shanika is now forced to look at herself and realize that life is better lived in truth and that the deeper you live within your lie, the harder it is to climb out of it. Would it be easier to just say that she is black? It may sound easier than it really is.

Will changing her identity be a mistake? Will she lose the love and trust of her mother and brother? What happens when she runs into a family member on the street? How long will she live the lie?

This book is definitely a must read! There is not a lot of drama but the novel is not slow. A lot of interesting questions came to mind as I was reading such as:
* What would be the reaction of white readers to know that some blacks pass for white?
* How often do people pass in society and for how long and why?

Thank you Karen for such a great book and I hope that there is a part 2!

Question: Is it ever legitimate to pass? Do you think that passin’ shows a lack of cultural pride? I look forward to your response in the comment block…

Agasa Elitou- Reviewer