I Read: The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell

 The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell: Tales of a 6' 4", African American, Heterosexual, Cisgender, Left-Leaning, Asthmatic, Black and Proud Blerd, Mama's Boy, Dad, and Stand-Up Comedian by W. Kamau Bell

I know W. Kamau Bell from his television series, United Shades of America on CNN. I consider it one of my favourite television programs. If you haven't seen it, please do: Sundays at 10:00pm. Currently in its third season. 

If you have seen the show, you know that Bell is funny, but also blunt and knowledgeable in a lot of situations that you wouldn't necessarily expect him to put himself in. The CNN description of the show is "'United Shades of America' follows comedian and political provocateur W. Kamau Bell as he explores communities across America to understand the unique challenges they face." The book is really no different.

The book provides us with Bell's backstory - his parents, his upbringing, and how being a 6'4" Black man has affected every aspect of his life. He's not the average, stereotypical Black guy though and his take on circumstances and situations may just shed some light for whoever the reader may be.

I appreciate Bell's candor, in the book and in the show. Explanations for how situations fit into certain labels, or how things can be seen based on the background you carry with you are all great ways to open your eyes to injustices in the world. We all know by now that I'm a privileged white woman - blonde hair, blue eyes - I've been stereotyped, but I still can't imagine how it feels to know that you're put in a box of expected intelligence and behaviour immediately upon being seen by nearly every single person who sees you. 

Bell writes in a way that isn't accusatory, but just shows how much he wants to illuminate the world (and particularly the United States) issues in order to work toward making a better place for his kids to grow up in. Though written in 2017, this book is still very relevant in the current climate. If you're interested in widening your world view, and opening your eyes, then pick it up. There is nothing more relevant to the world than social justice. 

#60-2020

'United Shades of America' follows comedian and political provocateur W. Kamau Bell as he explores communities across America to understand the unique challenges they face.