The debut collection of short stories titled Friday Black by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah is represented by an introductory quote from Kendrick Lamar, setting an optimistic tone for readers. Throughout the book, Adjei-Brenyah showcases his diverse writing skills by intertwining elements of popular culture with the essence of African American and immigrant American experiences. The stories within the collection skillfully delve into emotions like joy, pain, longing, and especially the anger stemming from encounters with racism, using various genres and styles ranging from fantastical to surreal.
Several narratives within the collection, such as “Friday Black,” “In Retail,” and “How to Sell a Jacket as Told by IceKing,” address consumerism through sharp satire. For instance, in the world created by Adjei-Brenyah, workers at the Prominent Mall routinely clean up after violent store-aisle riots, highlighting the absurdity of the situation with dark humor. Some tales adopt a tone reminiscent of the TV series Black Mirror, like “Zimmer Land,” which explores the consequences of immersive virtual reality experiences that seemingly lack repercussions.
In “The Hospital Where,” the protagonist’s father’s visit to the hospital unravels a poignant narrative of immigrant struggles and personal ambitions. As the story unfolds, themes of creativity, family, and mortality intertwine, culminating in a surreal exploration of power and artistry. While some stories may not resonate as strongly or feel disjointed from the overall tone of the collection, Adjei-Brenyah’s ability to capture the complexities of contemporary societal issues like race, immigration, and violence remains a central focus throughout.
Overall, “Friday Black” presents a compelling blend of social commentary and imaginative storytelling, showcasing Adjei-Brenyah’s potential as a writer to watch. Through his exploration of human desires, fears, and challenges, the author offers a unique perspective on the contemporary world, inviting readers to ponder the intricacies of our shared experiences and uncertainties.
