Coffee Will Make You Black By April Sinclair
Introduction
Coffee Will Make You Black is a novel written by April Sinclair. The book was published in 1994 and is set in Chicago during the 1960s. The story follows the life of Jean "Stevie" Stevenson, a young African American girl coming of age during the civil rights movement.
The Story
Stevie is a smart and ambitious girl who dreams of becoming a writer. She attends an all-white school and struggles to fit in with her classmates. Stevie's mother is strict and overprotective, which only adds to her difficulties. However, Stevie finds solace in her friends and her love of coffee.
As Stevie grows older, she becomes more aware of the racial tensions in her city. She witnesses the segregation and discrimination that African Americans face on a daily basis. Stevie's experiences shape her views on race and identity, and she begins to question her place in society.
The Themes
Coffee Will Make You Black explores themes of race, identity, and coming of age. The novel highlights the struggles that African Americans faced during the civil rights movement, and the impact that these struggles had on young people.
The book also addresses issues of gender and sexuality. Stevie's mother is homophobic, which causes tension in their relationship. Stevie herself begins to explore her own sexuality, which adds another layer to her already complex identity.
The Author
April Sinclair was born in 1953 in Mississippi. She grew up in Chicago and attended Roosevelt University, where she studied creative writing. Sinclair is best known for her novels that explore the experiences of African American women. In addition to Coffee Will Make You Black, she has also written Ain't Gonna Be the Same Fool Twice and I Left My Back Door Open.
The Reception
Coffee Will Make You Black received critical acclaim upon its publication. The novel was praised for its honest portrayal of race and identity, and its exploration of the civil rights movement. Sinclair's writing was also praised for its humor and wit.
The book has since become a classic in African American literature, and is often taught in high schools and colleges.
Conclusion
Coffee Will Make You Black is a powerful and insightful novel that explores the experiences of African Americans during the civil rights movement. April Sinclair's writing is honest and engaging, and her characters are relatable and memorable. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the civil rights movement, and the experiences of African American women.