"The Black Girl Survives in This One," a book edited by Desiree S. Evans and Saraciea J. Fennell, is a game-changer in horror; it gives Black girls voice, power, and a platform for telling their experiences like never before. This collection, consisting of 15 gripping and teasing tales, delights black heroines who defeat both human and supernatural monsters in the end.
The anthology brings stories beyond common horror tropes into narratives concerned with social commentary and cultural lore. Be it a werewolf during the Black Panther Party's time or a high schooler who has to play deadly games based on chattel slavery, each story brings out the survival instincts and bravery of African American girls.
With immersive plots and engaging stories, the book is a must-read not just for horror fanatics but also for the new generation of readers looking for fresh ideas and different perspectives in the genre.
Evans, a New Orleans author from Louisiana, is an expert on writing dark and fantastic tales for readers of all ages. With an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at The University of Texas at Austin, journalism degrees from Northwestern University, and international affairs degrees from Columbia University, Evans combines writing competence with cross-disciplinary academic training in her works.
Fennell, a black Honduran-American female writer, is known globally for her role in eliminating stereotypes in literature and her contributions to portraying diverse representation. As The Bronx is Reading founder and the creator of Honduran Garifuna Writers, she champions marginalized voices. Fennell, also a respected book publicist, has collaborated with acclaimed authors. Serving as board chair for Latinx in Publishing and on the advisory board of People of Color in Publishing, she continues to elevate underrepresented communities in the literary world.
In their dedication, editors Evans and Fennell addressed 'all the Black girls who have been aching to...come out on top as the Final Girl.' This collection, which defies the genre's preference for centering White heroines, features Black girls who are fighters and survivors, breakers of generational curses, and slayers of evil.
The stories contain deft social commentary, and many investigate the horrors of the human condition. As Kirkus Reviews highlighted, the anthology provides a much-needed representation of Black girls who refuse to be martyrs, sassy sidekicks, or casualties on the path to a White character's inevitable triumph.
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Several stories stand out for their cinematic quality and imaginative premises. Justina Ireland's "Black Pride" presents a radical take on werewolves set during the era of the Black Panther Party, offering a powerful blend of historical context and supernatural horror.
Brittney Morris' "Queeniums for Greenium!" explores the dangers of blind faith within a cult disguised as a multilevel marketing group, blending suspense with dark humor. Charlotte Nicole Davis' "Foxhunt" follows a high schooler who becomes the prey in a fatal game based on the brutality of chattel slavery, delivering a chilling commentary on systemic racism and violence.
Many authors delve into paranormal frights shaped by cultural folklore, adding depth and authenticity to the anthology. Evans' "The Brides of Devil's Bayou" follows a college student from rural Louisiana who confronts a maternal inheritance involving a terrifying deal with a demon, weaving together elements of Southern gothic and supernatural horror.
The diverse range of narratives reflects the richness of Black storytelling traditions and offers readers a unique perspective on horror.
An article from ABC News stated that the book challenges traditional horror tropes, offering diverse narratives that empower Black girls and celebrate their resilience. With powerful narratives, beautiful cultural collages, and empowering themes, this anthology stands for the might and depth of Black girlhood.
The book is an absolute must-read with lasting consequences, regardless of how experienced you are with horror.
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