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Good Talk

368 pages, 2020

biographies & memoirs

biographies & memoirs

997 books
arts & entertainment

arts & entertainment

401 books
Takeaways
Description

Mira Jacobs's impressive debut graphic memoir takes readers on a journey through her life as a first-generation American at an increasingly fraught time for immigrants and their families. 

In the book, Jacobs answers questions from her six-year-old son, Zakir, who asks if the new president hates brown boys like him; from her parents—who came to the United States from India after being arranged in an arranged marriage—about uncomfortable relationship advice; and from celebrities, including Madonna and Bill Murray, about imaginary therapy sessions.  

She also looks back on her own past, including how she felt when she was a fifth grader at a predominantly white school and the only nonwhite student to win the Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest.

Understanding Racism

Good Talk by Mira Jacob is a great resource to explore the complex issue of racism. It's a conversation starter, helping you to understand the nuances of racial prejudice and how it affects individuals and society.

Importance of Communication

The book emphasizes the importance of having open and honest conversations. It shows how communication can help bridge gaps, resolve misunderstandings, and foster better relationships.

Insight into Immigrant Experience

Mira Jacob provides a deep insight into the immigrant experience in America. It's a chance to see the struggles, triumphs, and the constant balancing act between two cultures that immigrants often face.

Exploring Identity

Good Talk encourages readers to dig into their own identities. It prompts you to question and understand your own beliefs, biases, and prejudices. It's a journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Impact of Politics on Personal Life

The book shows how politics can deeply impact personal lives. It's a reminder that political decisions have real-life consequences, affecting everything from personal relationships to one's sense of safety and belonging.

Quotes 4

Good Talk is a profound and urgently needed book about what it means to raise a person of color in America.

Celeste NgCeleste Ng - Novelist, Writer

Mira Jacob just set the standard for contemporary conversations on race, power, and parenting in America.

Trevor NoahTrevor Noah - Comedian, Television host

Good Talk illuminates the increasingly fractured world we live in, and helps us navigate the difficult conversations we need to change it.

Gabrielle UnionGabrielle Union - Actress, Activist

A beautiful and eye-opening account of what it means to mother a brown boy and what it means to live in this country post–9/11, as a person of color, as a woman, as an artist.

Kirkus ReviewsKirkus Reviews - Book Review Magazine
Celeste NgTrevor NoahGabrielle UnionKirkus Reviews

Recommendations

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498 books

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