HEADS OF THE COLORED PEOPLE is a collection of short stories exploring Black identity and modern life. I can’t even begin to explain it beyond that, in the best way possible.

This is one of the most unique collections I’ve ever read. I hesitate to compare the writing to anything, but if you could imagine Zadie Smith mashed up with Paul Beatty, you might get an idea of how inventive and sharp these stories are.

A few of the stories are connected by characters, and we get to see different sides of stories, sometimes across the span of the characters’ lives. All of the stories are connected by themes and imagery in a subtle enough way that I didn’t realize it until I was near the end of the book.

It’s taken me several attempts to write this review, and even then you can see I still can’t find the right words. Honestly, if you’ve been considering this book, just jump in and read it. You can come yell at me later if you don’t like it!