I received a gifted copy for an honest review.

I read this author’s other two novels. While I enjoyed them both, I didn’t think anything would top my love for This Is My America, yet here we are.

This story was thoughtfully written and heavily researched. Each and every character was written with care. I could feel each one’s emotions - confusion, helplessness, determination, rage, hatred, etc. As a Florida resident, this is a part of history that the department of education is meticulously trying to erase. Yet it shows how society continued to be complicit to the racism previous generations experienced (and carried out). The author beautifully illustrated what it means when we say “the children will lead them.”

I also found it interesting learning the story of passing from someone that did not have input in the decision. We often hear the stories of people passing but never learn about those directly and indirectly impacted. We know that they have to say goodbye forever but how do you explain to a child that their social circle is not only going to be changed but they have to deny everything they have to ever known? How do manage a forbidden love that could potentially threaten not only your life but the lives of everyone close to you?

There is so much more I want to say about this story but I want to be cognizant of spoilers. This is officially my new favorite book by Kim Johnson and I highly, highly recommend it.

My only hope is that the publishing company properly markets this and gives it the support it rightly deserves. Unfortunately, publishing companies do a disservice to not only their Black authors and readers, but to themselves by not utilizing the extensive Black reading company to spread the word about their books. I pray this time is different because this book deserves better.7 s DesanaRose116 7

As someone in my 40s, I recall the required readings from high school "Of Mice and Men," "Fahrenheit 451," "The Great Gatsby," and "To Kill a Mockingbird." This book deserves to be added to that list. It tackles racism, passing, and the myriad of emotions that come with them in a way that's easy to grasp.

The story was both emotionally charged and fast-paced, ultimately leaving a heartwarming impression. The characters were compelling (except for the racist ones), and the book really evokes strong emotions.

I highly recommend this book. Many thanks to Kim Johnson and NetGalley for the opportunity to read it. It was both engaging and enlightening. I plan to purchase a physical copy upon release and suggest to my local library that they add it to their shelves.6 s1 comment Erin726 52

4 Stars, maybe 4.5

I loved this book. It dives into an aspect of history that really is under-explored in fiction, and it raises some very salient questions about identity, safety, and activism that are relevant both in a historical context and in a contemporary one. My only qualm is that sometimes it feels it veers a little too modern in language choices, but it is written for a YA audience, so this can be somewhat forgiven.

Anyway, I've got more to gush about here, and all of that will be available in my full review, going live on June 14, 2024 at Gateway Reviews. Stop by if you get the chance!

I was provided with an ARC by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions here are my own.2024-blog blog-books historical-fiction2 s JaVone Bentley201

OUTSTANDING! Unputdownable!2 s goldenbookhunter159 17 Read

The Color of a Lie is soooo good! The plot, the writing, the characters all get a 10/10 from me.

This book takes us back to 1955 where our main character Calvin and his family are passing for white in a “Whites Only” town (Levittown community). After a tragedy forced the family to flee Chicago, Calvin’s dad urges his wife and son to embrace their new white lifestyle. Calvin is fully against it. He hates having to pretend and is always anxious about getting caught. At first, he tries to adapt, but ultimately, his desire to freely be himself wins out. Despite the risk, he goes across town (on the Black side) to make friends. Racist secrets about the white town start to reveal themselves which leads Calvin to realize the increased danger of passing.

Below is from the book description and it encompasses the story perfectly.

“Expertly weaving together real historical events with important reflections on being Black in America, acclaimed author Kim Johnson powerfully connects readers to the experience of being forced to live a life-threatening lie or embrace an equally deadly truth.”

I love how Kim tells this story while also shining a light on prominent issues Black people faced during this time such as:
-The greenbook aka traveling while black
-Passing
-The barriers to educational integration
-Sundown towns
-Homeownership discrimination
-Redlining
-Police brutality/harassment

Most of the above are still issues today. A reality that puts progress in the hot seat. How far have we really come being almost 80 years in the future, yet the adversity is the same?

In my experience, passing stories tend to sway towards the potential benefits, so I also really appreciate the pov of a Black person passing who didn’t want to. In addition, focusing on the turmoil that comes with passing. Kim gave us a story that shows pass wasn’t just an easy thing to do; nor was it without increased danger. It was a lie that could put you in an early grave.

Amazing job Kim! I highly recommend!!! I’d love to see this book brought to screen.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced eARC.1 Brittney Jade108 2

I received a free copy of this book as part of a book tour & for my honest opinion

This book comes out June 11th & when it comes out RUN & GET IT! Even pre-order it if you can wait

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