December’s BOTM: Behold the Dreamers

This month, This Black Girl Reads book club dives into the award-winning novel Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue—a powerful story that captures the complexities of chasing the American Dream.

Set against the backdrop of the 2008 financial crisis, the novel follows Jende and Neni Jonga, a young Cameroonian couple living in New York City. Jende lands a job as a chauffeur for Clark Edwards, a high-powered executive at Lehman Brothers. Meanwhile, Neni works tirelessly as a housekeeper for Clark’s wife, Cindy. Their lives seem full of possibility, but as the cracks in the Edwards family’s glamorous façade begin to show, the Jongas face difficult choices that force them to reconcile their dreams with their reality.

Mbue’s storytelling is both intimate and expansive, taking us on a journey that examines class, race, and the sacrifices we make for a better life.

✨ “You see, my son,” Jende said, “this world is full of mirages, full of things that look real but are not. It is your duty to find the truth in this world.”

This poignant quote reflects the heart of the story—a search for truth amidst illusion, hope amidst adversity.

We invite you to read along with us this month! Grab your copy of Behold the Dreamers, and let’s unpack its themes of resilience, ambition, and belonging together. Join the discussion online in our private Facebook group, and don’t forget to share your favorite quotes and reflections on Instagram using #ThisBlackGirlReads.

Let’s reclaim our narratives, one story at a time. 💫

Before diving in, please note that this book addresses themes that may be difficult for some readers, including

⚠️ Trigger Warnings: Immigration struggles, domestic abuse, substance abuse, depression and mental health struggles, classism and racial inequality.

Book Club Details

📅 Date: December 27, 2024

🕒 Time: 7:00 PM EST – Online

Grab your copy, mark your calendars, and bring an open heart. This conversation promises to be enriching and unforgettable. Let’s explore together, lifting each other through the journey of shared stories and self-discovery. We can’t wait to see you there!

Register for the discussion here.