PopSugar 2020 Reading Challenge Prompt: A book with only words on the cover, no images or graphics

Other PS 2020 reading prompts this would satisfy: A book by a WOC, A book with at least a four-star rating on Goodreads

TW: Discussions in racism, sexual assault, pedophilia, classism



I dove into Thick: And Other Essays thinking it would be one thing, but came out on the other end feeling enhanced and uncomfortable. I knew the book and its essays were written by a Black woman, so I knew it would be about her experiences, but with the title "thick," I thought it would be more about the fat experience. However, that's not to say I was disappointed. This book was incredible.


In this collection of essays, McMillan Cottom explores themes in Black feminism. Each essay has its own specific topic, but relies heavily on societal expectations of Black folx, sexual exploitation of Black women and girls, social media, politics, and pop culture. 


As White woman, it's not my place to judge the Black experience and story. What I can do though, is read these stories and experiences so I can learn more and education myself, so I can do better and be more supportive of Black women and other Black folx. Each of the essays was powerful and eye-opening. As I often find myself, I was heartbroken and angry for the injustices Black people face and continue to face, the stories McMillan Cottom shared.

I've never read a book like this before. I mean, I've read books of personal essays from comedians like Mindy Kaling and Tina Fey, but this was totally different. This book was full of true lived experiences mixed with academic references, which makes sense because McMillan Cottom is an associate professor of sociology, an academic herself.






Honestly, this book of essays was just incredible. It was definitely something I needed to read as a White woman. The book is specific to the experience of Black women and should be required reading. Surprisingly, I haven't seen this book on any of the lists circulating recently about must-read books for White folx about the Black experience, but this one should absolutely be on it.



Goodreads rating: ★★★★★