Description

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From the writer crowned one of the smartest, funniest voices in modern America, this hotly anticipated debut collection of essays offers “a precious glimpse into how Ziwe’s uniquely fearless mind functions” (New York)

Ziwe made a name for herself staring interviewees in the eye and asking, “How many Black friends do you have?” She’s an expert at making people squirm, coming right out and asking the tough questions about race and racism that our culture has made white people experts at dancing around.

In Black Friend, she turns this incisive perspective on the culture at large, with her signature blend of bluntness and warmth that keeps her guests coming back. Throughout the book, Ziwe mixes big-picture concepts like critical race theory and white privilege with pop-culture commentary and her own personal life story. From a cringe-inducing story of mistaken identity via a Jumbotron to an all-too-real fight-or-flight encounter in the woods, Ziwe tackles questions about race head on and in a manner that evokes the way it comes up in the real world—not through deliberate studies of history and theory, which are so important, but in an awkward conversation at a party or a “yikes” comment from a coworker in the break room. The book lives in the moment of discomfort that can be the most truly educational way of unlearning biases. Plus, like everything Ziwe does, it will startle you with how much it makes you laugh.

About the Author

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Ziwe is a comedian, writer, and actor. She was the executive producer and star of the eponymous late-night variety show ZIWE on Showtime. She has also written for Desus & Mero, Dickinson, and Our Cartoon President. She lives in New York City.

Praise For…

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“One of the smartest, funniest voices in modern America.”
— Kirkus Reviews

“The intimate selections offer a rare look beneath Ziwe’s comedic persona, and the humor amuses . . . .energetic mix of comedy and personal reflection”
— Publisher's Weekly

“It’s got a light touch but sharp nails.”
— Bustle

“a precious glimpse into how Ziwe’s uniquely fearless mind functions”
— Vulture, New York Magazine