ReView: The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris

There are some books that are a thrill ride, where you find yourself on edge from beginning to end. And there are also books that transport you to a place that is familiar but challenges how you look at and understand the world around you.

The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris is both.

When we meet Nella, she is an editorial assistant at Wagner Books; Nella is the only Black employee at a homogenous, white company and she’s feeling stagnant. Wanting to take on more responsibility, wanting to speak up for herself but always feeling like the cards are stacked against her (or discouraged by previous experience). Soon it seems Nella’s hope is reignited when Hazel, who is also Black, becomes Wagner’s newest editorial assistant.

But, like in any good thriller, Nella soon observes behavior that is both suspicious and alarming; in this case, it all begins with an anonymous note saying “Leave Wagner Now.” Nella soon finds herself on edge, questioning everything and everyone around her. Who could’ve written this note and what was their motivation? She’s caught between a rock and a hard place, and forced to make decisions about what she is and is not willing to compromise for her success.

Through flashbacks and brilliantly connected stories featuring additional characters (with distinct and vibrant voices), we find out that Nella’s story may not be new in the world of The Other Black Girl. Additionally, the way the author portrays how complicated and nuanced relationships can be between the women in the book, really fleshes out and completes the story.

Although the book starts off a bit slow, the book runs full speed ahead after Nella receives this note. It’s like the pot had been slowly simmering and the lid blows off with the anonymous note.