4.75/5 ARC gifted by the publisher

After years of living precariously, Jane hopes this year of house-sitting for her wealthy producer friend in LA will turn her fortune around. Suppose she can finish her latest novel, a centuries-spanning epic that her painter husband refers to as the "mulatto War and Peace," during her sabbatical. Then, Jane will finally get tenure and bring stability to her two kids. But as things go South and Jane turns her desperate gaze to Hollywood, will she find success? Or more mountains to climb?

COLORED TELEVISION offers a refreshingly unique perspective on mixed-race identity. Senna's storytelling is wickedly funny, yet deeply insightful, as she navigates the feelings of being in between and the inadequacy experienced by biracial Black and white individuals. While others have explored similar themes, Senna's approach is unparalleled, discussing serious topics through approachable writing, realistic characters, and addictive storytelling.

I particularly love the various biracial characters in COLORED TELEVISION and how they approach their identities differently. Some wear it like a badge of honor, some leverage their whiteness, while some use their Blackness for self-promotion. Through Jane's Hollywood adventures that act as a mirror, readers gain a deeper understanding of how multiracial people aren't (and shouldn't be) just a trope in pop culture.

COLORED TELEVISION is a treasure trove of thought-provoking content, delving into discussions of African immigrants vs African Americans, interracial relationships between a Black and white person, and the challenge of summarizing one's racial experience without flattening it. Senna's incredible writing shines most brightly when exploring politics, managing to be engaging without feeling didactic or overly serious. It's a testament to Senna's craft to tackle heavy topics while infusing humor, and COLORED TELEVISION delivered. I highly recommend this to those looking for a compelling and original read!