I really enjoyed this book! It’s written as separate entries for each word where you learn the pronunciation, emphasis, translation, usage, and see an example of its usage. The phrases are separated into categories and some of my favorite parts of the book were the intros to each section.

I especially enjoyed a section that traced the impact Black LGBTQ+ communities have had on Black phrases and then broader language. I also appreciated that the authors called out problematic language by explicitly saying “ableist,” “homophobic,” etc. I think it was helpful to still include the language with the note that it’s problematic so that folks unaware of its origin or history can learn and strike it from their vocab.

There was one part I didn’t appreciate - the example used for one word (“read”) was horribly insensitive to folks who use sperm banks to build their families. This was unnecessary as it was totally unrelated to the term being demonstrated and the authors could easily write a better example. I hope they consider changing that before publication. Had I not been committed to finishing the book, I may have quit it there.

Think urban dictionary but in book format. I loved (in the sense I found it funny) the translations but honestly you have to get the context because some of the phrases really are about context. I wished there was a little bit more connecting the saying to some history but overall I got a kick flipping through the pages.

I am not Black so I was not the intended audience but I enjoyed this all the same. It felt kind of like a little love letter to the Black community, uplifting and celebrating their culture and community. I was slightly thrown by the title, specifically the "historically" - I was thinking we were going to get some historical contexts for where these words and phrases came from. After having read it, I am very aware that would be way too much work for how many words and phrases were in this - and I also realize I can Google them myself, I'm simply stating what the book title led me to believe the book was going to be like. Loved the inclusivity of the examples! A strong 4-4.5 stars for me.

Historically Black Phrases by jarrett hill and Tre'vell Anderson is more than a book, it's a collectible item that every Black person should own. Not only is this reference guide curated with so much love, it's contents span the spectrum of the interpersonal ways of relating among Black folks where gossip, storytelling, cautions, repercussions, and inspirational words are concerned.

This book reads like a dictionary divided into the sections referenced above. Each word is broken down by pronunciation, cultural translation, usage, and an example sentence where someone might use the term. I really enjoyed reading this book and had many moments where I could remember where I was and with who when I first heard an expression being used.

Thank you so much to the authors for writing this book and to the publisher for the opportunity to read the e-arc copy!

NetGalley ARC Educator 550974

This book is akin to the dummies guide books or urban dictionary. It is a dictionary full of phrases used by POC. For those who know the phrases, it gives another glimpse into what people think the phrases mean. I know some POC will say the authors are giving away community secrets, while others will refer the book to those who want more info on the vernacular.

Quick Summary: "Art made verbal"

My Review: Historically Black Phrases: From "I Ain't One of Your Lil' Friends" to "Who All Gon' Be There?" by Jarrett Hill and Tre'vell Anderson was all that! As soon as I read the words, "To Boo Boo the Fool," I knew I was in for a treat.

This masterpiece is sure to be a classic for those who like a little bit of humor with their linguistics lessons. I could not get enough of this book. As I read through each section, I found myself engaging in a quiz of sorts to see just how much I knew about the Black vernacular.

I found this book to be humorous, educational, special, and sho-nuff good.

My Final Say: This is a book that needs to go under every coffee table. For that matter, it needs to be brought out and celebrated at every cookout, family reunion, church gathering, and get together. Readers will quickly find themselves transported to a place of understanding and good times.

Other: I look forward to the next installment. Keep 'em comin'!

Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: All
Keeper: Yes
Re-read: Yes
Favorites Shelf: Yes
Hard copy: Most definitely

Sincere appreciation is extended to the authors, to Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press, and to NetGalley, who provided access to this title in exchange for an honest review. The words I have shared are my own thoughts and opinions.

Yes!!! From start to finish, this book had me cracking up!! Jarrett Hill & Tre’vell Anderson are on point with this one!! I knew most of these phrases but there were some I didn’t. I also liked how they included the culture references/origins for the really popular ones.

I can’t wait to gift this one to family & friends because I know they will appreciate it as much I appreciated it!! Pick this one for sure, you want be disappointed. If I could I would give this one 100 stars!!

Thanks to NetGalley, Jarrett Hill, Tre’vell Anderson & the publisher for this ARC opportunity.

LMAO!!!! This book right here!!!! I laughed the whole time reading this. I did not realize how many of the sayings explained I or others in my circle say every day. The authors are on point with the sayings. They are universally known, trust me. Loved the way they gave a definition if u will ten gave it to u straight via a scenario. LOL. This book will be on my gift giving list. Read it in one sitting and laughed. Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC of this book in return for my honest review. Receiving the book in this manner had no bearing on my review. Kudos to the authors.

I just tried to download this title which is a "read now" for me. Unfortunately, I hadn't realized that Kindle isn't an option and I don't have another way of downloading.

This sounds like a wonderful book. If it's possible to get a Kindle review copy or a paper review copy, I would very much appreciate that. If not, know that I'll be looking for this title in September when it comes out.

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Sarah-Hope Parmeter
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Watsonville, CA 95076