Title: The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell: Tales of a 6′ 4″, African American, Heterosexual, Cisgender, Left-Leaning, Asthmatic, Black and Proud Blerd, Mama’s Boy, Dad, and Stand-Up Comedian
Author: W.
Kamau Bell
First published May 2, 2017
340 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781101985878 (ISBN10: 1101985879)
Rating: 4
Overview
I am known as Meredith Nic Essus, the princess of faerie, and as a private investigator in Los Angeles. My life is filled with royal drama and intrigue, both in the mortal and fey realms.
I have faced many enemies, including my own kin, while fulfilling my duty to produce an heir to claim the throne. However, I chose to abandon my royal life and live in exile with my beloved Frost and Darkness.
Despite leaving the monarchy, I cannot ignore my people. The LAPD is baffled by a series of murders of the fey, and it’s up to me and my guardsmen to solve the mystery.
Mortals are performing miracles, and I’m suspected of using banned magical activities. My rival, Gilda, the Fairy Godmother, adds to the chaos in Los Angeles.
I thought I left the politics behind, but evil has no borders, and no one is immortal, not even those with magic. It’s time to wake up and face the harsh reality of the world I live in.
About the Author
W. Kamau Bell is a comedian and host who delves into the complex issues of race and politics in America.
His work is well-known for its socio-political commentary and insights.
Editoral Review
The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell: Tales of a 6′ 4″, African American, Heterosexual, Cisgender, Left-Leaning, Asthmatic, Black and Proud Blerd, Mama’s Boy, Dad, and Stand-Up Comedian, written by W.
Kamau Bell, is a unique and insightful memoir that covers a wide range of sensitive issues such as race, politics, and social issues. Bell, who is a stand-up comedian, writer, and host in his own TV show, details his journey from childhood to adulthood and beyond, providing a candid look into his life as an awkward kid trying to fit into society to an accomplished and influential person comfortable in his skin.
The author uses humor to address uncomfortable realities and takes the reader through his life journey with wit and uncanny insight. Throughout the book, Bell’s writing style is engaging and relatable, leaving the reader feeling like they are having a personal conversation with the author.
He employs an authentic voice with a natural rhythm and pacing that helps the reader to appreciate the complexity of his upbringing and how such experiences shaped him into who he is today. One of the book’s strengths is its attention to detail that creates an emotional connection between the reader and the author.
His storytelling ability allows him to explore various themes in a way that resonates with readers regardless of their backgrounds. Bell skillfully weaves in his life experiences with critical analysis, touching on various social-political events that have shaped American history.
He regularly considers how systemic issues of race, gender, and sexuality have affected his life and provides a unique voice for marginalized communities. At times, some of the book’s stories feel disjointed, with sudden shifts in tone or subject, which can be jarring.
This ultimately takes away from the book’s overall flow, making it harder for the reader to get fully immersed in Bell’s story. Overall.
The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell is a thought-provoking memoir that will make the reader laugh out loud in one moment and think deeply in the next.
The book provocatively jabs at society’s excesses and inequities, offering notions of an equal and fair society. Any person interested in social justice or the struggles of the BIPOC community will learn something from this book.
As a result, I recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating and informative memoir on contemporary issues. I rate this book 4.5 out of 5.
