A Marvellous Debut

Homebodies by Tembe Denton-Hurst is a marvellous contemporary debut novel that consumed me from the start.

The novel is written from the point of view of Mickey, a young black woman, who is searching for her place in society. Life is unfair as Mickey finds she has to work twice as hard to receive half as much, as the white women in her workplace. Life is not at all fair when the scales are already tipped against you.

As Mickey’s world tips on its axis, she returns to her grandmother’s house. Here, she feels loved, and starts to heal bit by bit.

Mickey’s hometown is full of memories which she re-visits both physically and mentally.

In New York Mickey felt invisible. In her hometown she is seen.

We sense the turmoil and conflict between staying with her grandmother and returning to New York. In the end, the choice is made up for her.

We see the power of social media to either bury us or elevate us.

Homebodies was a departure from my usual genre, and I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Mickey is a very likable leading lady who brought out the mothering instincts in me.

Homebodies is a powerful and necessary read. We must never judge others for the colour of their skin, their age, sexual orientation or race. There is only one race – the human race – and we must love and encourage each other, building people up and not tearing down.

Homebodies was a fabulous debut and I look forward to more from Tembe Denton-Hurst.

I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON