Publisher's Synopsis
From Oakland to LA and back to the Bay, this compilation of true stories utilizes music and history to highlight the life experiences of one light-skinned Black woman, born in America. While this book highlights my experiences growing up Black in America, this book also highlights Oakland, LA, Black history, and much more! The chapters in my book, Redbone Diaries: The Soundtrack of My Life, are referred to as episodes. Most of the episodes and subtitles are named after songs. The songs are representative of the message being presented in each episode.For Example: *Episode 14 is called "Sideshow." This episode highlights the tradition and culture of the East Oakland Sideshow. Each section of this story is named after songs such as: Side Show by Richie Rich, Somethin' to Ride To (Fonky Expedition) by Conscious Daughters, Thizzle Dance by Mac Mall, Tell Me When to Go by E40, Slow Down by Clyde Carson, and Ima Keep It Goin' by Keak Da Sneak.*Episode 23 is called "Sound of Da Police." This episode discusses how some police officers choose to interact with Black people. Each section of this story highlights a particular group within the Black community and the subtitles of this episode are also named after songs such as: The Black Male - "Trapped" by Tupac, The Black Female - "Ready or Not" by Fugees, The Black Couple - "Free" by Goodie Mob, Black People - "Alright" by Kendrick Lamar, andThe Black Family - "Pass Me By" by J Cole.* Episodes 1 and 19 are about dealing with racism in public school classrooms. These episodes are also named after songs such as: Episode 1 - "Say It Loud" by James BrownEpisode 19 -"Fight the Power" by Public Enemy and"Too Legit to Quit" by MC Hammer (subtitle)*Episode 26 is called My Country's Killing Me. This episode is about gentrification in Oakland. Each section of this story is named after songs such as: "Amerika" by Trick Daddy"Thought Process" by Goodie MobThere are a total of 28 episodes in the book as well as a final episode called Aftermath: 7 Day