Straight, No Chaser: How I Became a Grown-Up Black Woman

Ms. Nelson writes compellingly about many issues facing the Black woman. I found the book illuminating, enlightening and difficult to put down as each sentence demanded my attention. It validated some of my own personal concerns and illuminated other issues I need to be concerned about.

Another job well done for Jill Nelson.She spoke of my newsroom experience in Volunteer Slavery. She put names to so many of the feelings that I have, defined my "secret language," spoke my mind. She told the things I have been ashamed to - because "nice colored girls don't..."Keep talking, Jill. I'm listening.

All the positive comments before me pretty much speak for me. The only thing new that I have to add is that people need to read the book and make their own judgement. I think it is really funny how we as Black People will over critique our stuff and just except other folks writing as "good writing with tangible concepts." She had to speak in generalized terms because one book can't possible cover everything and everybody. Everything written is opinion, so take what you need out of Ms. Nelson's book and grow from it. My stockings off to a well written book. My book club is into it heavy.

Jill Nelson captures the essence of what I had been feeling since childhood, but was never able to express. For those people who are upset that she sounds angry it is about time someone is angry at how the African American woman has been treated by Black and White men. I am so glad that someone addresses the abuse that African American women put themselves through in order to be aligned with the Black Man only to have him betray her by pretending that she does not exist. Many of our men would not be where they are today if it were not for the Black female, yet most Black men have no use for their Nubian sisters. I am so glad that someone addresses the rage, frustration, and hurt that this realization causes. Thank you Jill Nelson for the voice.

Well !!! I don't want to use the term scathing to describe this book as that word seems to have a negative connotation. This book is, in my eyes, far from negative. But, the unfiltered, blunt and to the point observations that Ms. Nelson makes about the status of Black women in America may leave many folks singed !! Sharing revealing examples from her own life, the author cuts through many of the euphemisms used to mask racism, sexism and the outright abuse of Black women over the decades. She unapologetically discusses her pain, anger frustration while leaving us the message that it is OKAY for us feel and express it as well. We do not have to continue to be good little colored girls in the face of people telling us, through words and actions, that we do not count. The 'niggerbitchfit' we feel boiling over and out of us, on far too many occasions, has its merits for our mental and physical well being ! She also makes some stinging comments about some of Black America's cherished 'role models' and 'icons'. Who would dare to call Maya Angelou a 'mammy' figure? Who would call the women of 'Living Single' updated examples of the same old black female stereotypes? Ms. Nelson. She does not mince words! In addition to reading the book, I attended her reading and signing. Marcus Books in Oakland, CA is a small store but it was packed with admirers ... and critics. Jill Nelson handled herself well and stuck to her guns when faced with comments from a few disgruntled male visitors who tried to make this book (about Black female empowerment) about them. If you think you can handle it, buy it, read it and heed its advice. The last chapter leaves us with a mission and a challenge ...