25-year-old Queenie Jenkins, a Jamaican British woman, is having a rough go. Her longtime boyfriend wants a break, leading to struggles at work, a depressing living situation, and questionable life choices. While this synopsis might indicate a light read, Queenie (2019) is a smart story of a strong woman coming to terms with a traumatic childhood, dealing with microaggressions and outright racism, and bolstering her self-worth. In her debut novel, Candice Carty-Williams writes an enduring tale of friends, family, and forgiveness along with the importance of mental health.
I read this candid and compelling novel set in contemporary London in two sittings. Queenie's story will grab you from the start. And the book is the basis for a new Hulu show of the same name (check out a Roku to watch).
Watch an interview with the author/showrunner and cast