Book Review: Nobody’s Magic by Destiny O. Birdsong

Thank you Grand Central Pub & Hachette Audio for the review copies.

Nobody’s Magic is a triptych novel about three Black women with albinism living in the South. For reference I listened to the audiobook which I highly recommend!

Suzette:

Suzette is a sheltered 20 year old girl. This story was pretty much a coming of age as Suzette wanted to get her driver license and experience love. Meanwhile her father wanted to keep her locked up in their house for her own good after an almost incident when she was younger. At times I cringed while reading her story, then I had remember due to her isolation certain things are new and confusing to her. The story is left with an open ending so I’m hoping she was able accomplish her goals and find some independence.

Maple:

Maple’s mother was killed in a senseless drive by shooting and is dealing with the after effects. This story focuses heavily on grief and how we cope. There’s no timeline or right way to grieve a loved one. It’s different for everyone. This story also touched on toxic family members and generational trauma. The story was depressing at times, but the kitchen scene between Maple and Ms. Dee Dee warmed my heart.

“Cause real happiness is like trouble: you look for it long enough, it’ll find you. Even if you started out looking in the wrong places.”

Ms. Dee Dee coming through with a word.

Agnes:
Agnes was a MESSY mess and I don’t like how she did Prime at all. I get the reasoning, but after everything he’s gone through. Did the conversation with his momma not mean anything to you? Oh my heart. 

Triggers: Death of a parent. Self medicating with drugs and alcohol. Anxiety. PTSD.