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Rebecca, Not Becky
In the vein of Such a Fun Age, a whip-smart, compulsively readable novel about two upper-class stay-at-home mothers—one white, one Black—living in a "perfect" suburb that explores motherhood, friendship, and the true meaning of sisterhood amidst the backdrop of America’s all-too-familiar racial reckoning.
De’Andrea Whitman, her husband Malik, and their five-year-old daughter, Nina, are new to the upper-crust white suburb of Rolling Hills, Virginia—a move motivated by circumstance rather than choice. De’Andrea is heartbroken to leave her comfortable life in the Black oasis of Atlanta, and between her mother-in-law’s Alzheimer's diagnosis, her daughter starting kindergarten, and the overwhelming whiteness of Rolling Hills, she finds herself struggling to adjust to her new community. To ease the transition, her therapist proposes a make a white girlfriend.
When Rebecca Myland learns about her new neighbors, the Whitmans, she's thrilled. As chair of the Parent Diversity Committee at her daughters’ school, she’s championed racial diversity in the community—and what could be better than a brand-new Black family? It’s serendipitous when her daughter, Isabella, and Nina become best friends on the first day of kindergarten. Now, Rebecca can put everything she’s learned about antiracism into practice—especially those oh-so-informative social media posts. And finally, the Parent Diversity Committee will have some… well, diversity.
Following her therapist’s suggestion, De’Andrea reluctantly joins Rebecca’s committee. The painfully earnest white woman is so overly eager it makes De’Andrea wonder if Rebecca’s therapist told her to make a Black friend! But when Rolling Hill’s rising racial sentiments bring the two women together in common cause, they find it isn’t the only thing they have in common. . . .
De’Andrea Whitman, her husband Malik, and their five-year-old daughter, Nina, are new to the upper-crust white suburb of Rolling Hills, Virginia—a move motivated by circumstance rather than choice. De’Andrea is heartbroken to leave her comfortable life in the Black oasis of Atlanta, and between her mother-in-law’s Alzheimer's diagnosis, her daughter starting kindergarten, and the overwhelming whiteness of Rolling Hills, she finds herself struggling to adjust to her new community. To ease the transition, her therapist proposes a make a white girlfriend.
When Rebecca Myland learns about her new neighbors, the Whitmans, she's thrilled. As chair of the Parent Diversity Committee at her daughters’ school, she’s championed racial diversity in the community—and what could be better than a brand-new Black family? It’s serendipitous when her daughter, Isabella, and Nina become best friends on the first day of kindergarten. Now, Rebecca can put everything she’s learned about antiracism into practice—especially those oh-so-informative social media posts. And finally, the Parent Diversity Committee will have some… well, diversity.
Following her therapist’s suggestion, De’Andrea reluctantly joins Rebecca’s committee. The painfully earnest white woman is so overly eager it makes De’Andrea wonder if Rebecca’s therapist told her to make a Black friend! But when Rolling Hill’s rising racial sentiments bring the two women together in common cause, they find it isn’t the only thing they have in common. . . .
428 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2023
207 people are currently reading
5554 people want to read
About the author
Christine Platt
55 books191 followersChristine A. Platt is a historian and storyteller of the African diaspora. She holds a B.A. in Africana Studies from the University of South Florida, M.A. in African Studies from The Ohio State University and received her J.D. from Stetson University College of Law.
Her debut novel, The Truth About Awiti, was published under the penname CP Patrick and won the 2016 Independent Publisher Book Awards Gold Medal for Multicultural Fiction. The Truth About Awiti is currently used in high schools, colleges and universities to teach the history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Christine’s highly anticipated children series, Ana & Andrew, will be published on December 15, 2018 (ABDO Books/Calico Kids).
Christine currently serves as the Managing Director of the Antiracist Research & Policy Center at American University under the leadership of National Book Award-winning author, Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. She is a proud member of the Association of Black Women Historians and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Additionally, she is an Ambassador for Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture.
You can follow Christine on Instagram via @theafrominimalist, where she interacts with thousands of friends and fans on minimalism and, of course, books.
Her debut novel, The Truth About Awiti, was published under the penname CP Patrick and won the 2016 Independent Publisher Book Awards Gold Medal for Multicultural Fiction. The Truth About Awiti is currently used in high schools, colleges and universities to teach the history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Christine’s highly anticipated children series, Ana & Andrew, will be published on December 15, 2018 (ABDO Books/Calico Kids).
Christine currently serves as the Managing Director of the Antiracist Research & Policy Center at American University under the leadership of National Book Award-winning author, Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. She is a proud member of the Association of Black Women Historians and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Additionally, she is an Ambassador for Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture.
You can follow Christine on Instagram via @theafrominimalist, where she interacts with thousands of friends and fans on minimalism and, of course, books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 355 reviews
October 30, 2023
I almost gave up on this book in the first chapter with De’Andrea because it read more like IG captions than an actual book. I kept going, and the writing did get better and became more of a story and less superficial, although especially for De’Andrea’s part, there were a lot of times I felt like “ we don’t really talk like that or use those terms.” At that time, it felt more like it was trying to explain things than tell a story. Which then made me feel like I wasn’t the audience for this story.
.
This was an interesting story. The plot is ripped right out of the headlines and infused with real-life new stories. De’Andrea and Rebecca felt more stereotypes of upper-middle-class Black and white women than developed characters. I wonder if some of that was intentional based on Rebecca, Not Becky title, story, and plot lines. Either way, it left me wanting more and feeling a bit annoyed at the stereotypes and limited development at times. Some of the supporting characters were interesting, and I wish we had more of their stories or character development, but some just felt out of place, like Heidi. The book ended rather abruptly. We got no conclusion or closing with Rebecca, and after all the stuff with Jake, I felt we needed more. The story with Malik and De’Andrea was kind of brushed over, too. It felt like we got more about their friend reunion/visit than we did about the true aftermath of the incident.
I like the idea of this book and where it was going, but it fell short and was a bit disappointing. There was so much to explore here- motherhood, race, class, aging, family situations and I felt like so much of it was glossed over, and we got bits and pieces that left me wanting more.
.
This was an interesting story. The plot is ripped right out of the headlines and infused with real-life new stories. De’Andrea and Rebecca felt more stereotypes of upper-middle-class Black and white women than developed characters. I wonder if some of that was intentional based on Rebecca, Not Becky title, story, and plot lines. Either way, it left me wanting more and feeling a bit annoyed at the stereotypes and limited development at times. Some of the supporting characters were interesting, and I wish we had more of their stories or character development, but some just felt out of place, like Heidi. The book ended rather abruptly. We got no conclusion or closing with Rebecca, and after all the stuff with Jake, I felt we needed more. The story with Malik and De’Andrea was kind of brushed over, too. It felt like we got more about their friend reunion/visit than we did about the true aftermath of the incident.
I like the idea of this book and where it was going, but it fell short and was a bit disappointing. There was so much to explore here- motherhood, race, class, aging, family situations and I felt like so much of it was glossed over, and we got bits and pieces that left me wanting more.
February 7, 2024
As a Rebecca who has never gone by Becky, I had to pick this book up. With alternating points of view, De'Andrea and Rebecca give slice-of-life narratives. Both are affluent, suburban stay-at-home moms whose children attend a prestigious school and whose mothers-in-law reside in a state-of-the-art dementia care facility. Both are in their 40s. Neither have a perfect marriage. Neither are quite sure what to do with themselves. With lightness and wit, the authors tackle highly relatable issues like race relations, individuality, the culture wars, social media, and the highly permeable, sometimes perilous relationship between our personal and public lives. This book has something to say about community, friendship, allyship, how we cope, and how trauma and joy coexist, yet it's never heavy-handed, relying instead on narrative prowess. It satirizes many aspects of our culture and delivers some excellent zingers, yet it's tender enough that I cared about even the minor characters. The ending kept me awake for quite some time. It's one of those books that will make you want to start a book club so you can talk to people about it. Seriously, it might be our pick for summer's book club. Timely, subversive, and as real as it gets. – Rebecca O.
September 27, 2023
I had to force myself to finish this. Lots of telling rather than showing, constant brand-name dropping, loads of slang that may or may not date well. The characters are all conceited, passive-aggressive, and unpleasant. They're also not real characters, but two-dimensional stereotypes that think and talk in ways and phrases that are so tired they should be dead. Give this one a miss.
January 17, 2024
The jacket cover describes this book as . . . "debut that explores motherhood, friendship, and the true meaning of sisterhood amid America's racial reckoning." One of the authors describes it as "a book about how we show up for one another." Both are certainly true and it's even more. It also weaves in male/female roles, Alzheimer's, infidelity and socioeconomic status. The thing that could have made it better for me was less character development between the women of such a high socioeconomic level that I couldn't relate to their lives and more time on the racial issues. I so want to be a more educated and a more understanding friend to people of different races. Books like this can certainly be of help.
January 6, 2024
Not going to lie, I wanted to read this book just for the title (as a Rebecca that does not go by Becky lol) & had no idea what it was about.
In short, this was a decent read. I think the clear audience is older white woman who are starting their antiracist journey. My biggest complaint is that the story felt flat. The characters lacked substance and the plot was very heavy on telling, not showing. I feel like I never truly got to know any of the characters beyond the surface level. Still confused on Heidi… it was entertaining enough but not a book I would rush to recommend to others.
3⭐️
In short, this was a decent read. I think the clear audience is older white woman who are starting their antiracist journey. My biggest complaint is that the story felt flat. The characters lacked substance and the plot was very heavy on telling, not showing. I feel like I never truly got to know any of the characters beyond the surface level. Still confused on Heidi… it was entertaining enough but not a book I would rush to recommend to others.
3⭐️
December 29, 2023
Def feel like this was written for rich middle aged white women who have never confronted privilege/done any anti-racist work. Honestly it’s like a book that was written with the intention of being a book club book to bring us conversations about race and wealth and other hard hitting topics and I can see it working well for certain groups!! Not saying it was bad but a tad cliche
December 9, 2023
De'Andrea and her family move from Atlanta to Rolling Hills by circumstance and not choice. It's quite an adjustment leaving a comfortable life in the Black oasis of Atlanta to the overwhelming whiteness of Rolling Hills, Virginia. De'Andrea's therapist challenges her to befriend a white woman to help ease the transition.
Rebecca is thrilled there's a new Black family in the neighborhood. She can put everything she's learned about antiracism into practice while running the Parent Diversity Committee. The two women come together for a common cause amidst the community's rising racial sentiments.
Le sigh. This could have been a really good novel if done right.
The conflict of the story happened past the halfway mark. There was no reason to drag on this plot for such an underwhelming climax. I wanted to give up early on but kept pushing through. When is the good part? The dialogue is riddled with slang that will be outdated soon and the author leans into stereotypes with the unlikeable main characters.
Where is the originality? What are the lessons learned that can help potential readers in a similar racial situation? At 55% through the galley, I figured I might as well finish the second half since the writing seemed better. But then the ending was thrown together.
Bye, Becky! Don't listen to the blurb. This is not along the same vein as Such a Fun Age. It is not compulsively readable. Unfortunately, my recommendation is to skip this new release. Keep in mind though, just because I did not enjoy it does not mean you won't either.
Happy Pub Day, Christine Platt and Catherine Wigginton Greene! Rebecca, Not Becky is now available.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
Rebecca is thrilled there's a new Black family in the neighborhood. She can put everything she's learned about antiracism into practice while running the Parent Diversity Committee. The two women come together for a common cause amidst the community's rising racial sentiments.
Le sigh. This could have been a really good novel if done right.
The conflict of the story happened past the halfway mark. There was no reason to drag on this plot for such an underwhelming climax. I wanted to give up early on but kept pushing through. When is the good part? The dialogue is riddled with slang that will be outdated soon and the author leans into stereotypes with the unlikeable main characters.
Where is the originality? What are the lessons learned that can help potential readers in a similar racial situation? At 55% through the galley, I figured I might as well finish the second half since the writing seemed better. But then the ending was thrown together.
Bye, Becky! Don't listen to the blurb. This is not along the same vein as Such a Fun Age. It is not compulsively readable. Unfortunately, my recommendation is to skip this new release. Keep in mind though, just because I did not enjoy it does not mean you won't either.
Happy Pub Day, Christine Platt and Catherine Wigginton Greene! Rebecca, Not Becky is now available.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
January 24, 2024
Truly horrible.
I cannot describe how much I disliked this book.
The writing and cultural references were almost unbearable the slang, casual wording and fads will not allow this book to withstand the test of time. If someone in 5 years picked up this book they would miss probably all the "digs" and popular branding.
I picked up this book because it was part of a bookclub I am in and I thought the cover was so cute! Don't let it fool you. This was nothing more than two authors with clear political agendas. Now as I say that I am aware that this book covers race and diversity and the racial things that have happened are truly horrible and inexcusable. Please do not gloss over that fact. I reiterate racism has no place anywhere. Full stop.
But I can't help but point out how angry and mean the main character was. At one point she even stated "Statistically the next white woman I try to befriend will likely be a sociopath" She was constantly just mad about everything, venting about her husband and life. She also obsessivly brand/name dropping about her Golden Goose shoes or David Yurman bracelet.
I am not just picking on the De'Angela, Rebecca was just as horrible and unlikable. She was such a shallow character that really only cared for how things appeared . She couldn't even bother to read the book she selected for book club to help her udnerstand racial issues? She had literally nothing better to do?
As I stated earlier there were so many pop cultural references
"Karen"
"Hawk"
"Becky"
Musicians, sayings, clothing, brands....the list goes on....
Again thh women in this book were feminist. Try to control their lives and families. This book proves why women are too emotional to handle the role. Women are to care and nurture for the family.
The whole "Toy Protest" situation where the teacher taught kindergarteners how to protest was when I wanted to give up. But I was hoping that at the end DeAngela and Rebecca would become good friends and each let their guard down. But the ending was just....blah.
If I had words to sum this book up it would be:
Angry
Divisive
Petty
I did not like either voice.
I will say it again yes I am aware terrible injustices are done, but I believe this book was pushing buttons.
I cannot describe how much I disliked this book.
The writing and cultural references were almost unbearable the slang, casual wording and fads will not allow this book to withstand the test of time. If someone in 5 years picked up this book they would miss probably all the "digs" and popular branding.
I picked up this book because it was part of a bookclub I am in and I thought the cover was so cute! Don't let it fool you. This was nothing more than two authors with clear political agendas. Now as I say that I am aware that this book covers race and diversity and the racial things that have happened are truly horrible and inexcusable. Please do not gloss over that fact. I reiterate racism has no place anywhere. Full stop.
But I can't help but point out how angry and mean the main character was. At one point she even stated "Statistically the next white woman I try to befriend will likely be a sociopath" She was constantly just mad about everything, venting about her husband and life. She also obsessivly brand/name dropping about her Golden Goose shoes or David Yurman bracelet.
I am not just picking on the De'Angela, Rebecca was just as horrible and unlikable. She was such a shallow character that really only cared for how things appeared . She couldn't even bother to read the book she selected for book club to help her udnerstand racial issues? She had literally nothing better to do?
As I stated earlier there were so many pop cultural references
"Karen"
"Hawk"
"Becky"
Musicians, sayings, clothing, brands....the list goes on....
Again thh women in this book were feminist. Try to control their lives and families. This book proves why women are too emotional to handle the role. Women are to care and nurture for the family.
The whole "Toy Protest" situation where the teacher taught kindergarteners how to protest was when I wanted to give up. But I was hoping that at the end DeAngela and Rebecca would become good friends and each let their guard down. But the ending was just....blah.
If I had words to sum this book up it would be:
Angry
Divisive
Petty
I did not like either voice.
I will say it again yes I am aware terrible injustices are done, but I believe this book was pushing buttons.
October 24, 2023
This was a quick read for me that was very relatable. There was a lot of slang and stereotyping, but I got the point the authors were trying to make. It’s not too heavy as the topics are relevant and happening everyday in real time, but there are some taboo subjects slightly discussed. It got me through my plane ride from Seattle to Houston and back! So it kept my attention.
December 9, 2023
“Even if you in a Benz, you still a nigga in a coupe” ~ Kanye West ******This quote is very relevant to a portion of this story, and real life.******
Well this book was certainly a tug of war of feelings. I disliked it, but liked it. I didn’t care about the characters, but started to care about them. This book had me all over the place!
It started with me deeply disliking the book, characters and dialogue. It was all so cringe and I just didn’t want to keep going, but I couldn’t stop. I pressed on and everything got much better around 20% into the story.
So, we have Deondria, a Black woman who’s just moved to an upper class community in North Virginia with her husband and daughter. They move to be near her mother in law who has Alzheimer’s. Knowingly, they are the only “ones” in this lavish community.
When enrolling her daughter in school, she becomes friendly with Rebecca, president of the school’s diversity committee. Hmmm?
The two ladies are thrust into each other’s lives when their daughters become fast friends. But the more they get to know each other the more uncomfortable loops are thrown in the mix.
The book started off a mess, thanks in large part to one of the narrators for me, but it really tapped into some huge racial tensions in a lighthearted, yet in your face way. I really enjoyed the sincerity, tenderness and openness that both characters shared. Both were also dealing with mother in laws with serious health conditions.
This would be a great book for book clubs! There are a host of questions and topics that I wish I could I could discuss with a group myself, things that really get you thinking deep:
Should schools be teaching/addressing social issues in school (race relations, protests, etc)
What does “wokeness” really mean?
Are there steps to take to stop racism?
…. And so many more thoughts….
There were some storylines and characters that kinda dropped off, and I wanted to know the outcome. One of my first thoughts when I started listening was, “this is similar to Such A Fun Age”, and yes it was. Especially being that one of the narrators also performed SAFA. But it was in similar style and how the racial tensions weren’t harsh and heavy. Yet still notable.
But, in the end, I’m glad that I kept reading and didn’t let the negative reviews from one demographic deter me from seeing it through to the end. Sure, it’s an uncomfortable read because it forces you to come face to face with real issues happening in the world around us, which makes for an uncomfortable experience for others.
Well this book was certainly a tug of war of feelings. I disliked it, but liked it. I didn’t care about the characters, but started to care about them. This book had me all over the place!
It started with me deeply disliking the book, characters and dialogue. It was all so cringe and I just didn’t want to keep going, but I couldn’t stop. I pressed on and everything got much better around 20% into the story.
So, we have Deondria, a Black woman who’s just moved to an upper class community in North Virginia with her husband and daughter. They move to be near her mother in law who has Alzheimer’s. Knowingly, they are the only “ones” in this lavish community.
When enrolling her daughter in school, she becomes friendly with Rebecca, president of the school’s diversity committee. Hmmm?
The two ladies are thrust into each other’s lives when their daughters become fast friends. But the more they get to know each other the more uncomfortable loops are thrown in the mix.
The book started off a mess, thanks in large part to one of the narrators for me, but it really tapped into some huge racial tensions in a lighthearted, yet in your face way. I really enjoyed the sincerity, tenderness and openness that both characters shared. Both were also dealing with mother in laws with serious health conditions.
This would be a great book for book clubs! There are a host of questions and topics that I wish I could I could discuss with a group myself, things that really get you thinking deep:
Should schools be teaching/addressing social issues in school (race relations, protests, etc)
What does “wokeness” really mean?
Are there steps to take to stop racism?
…. And so many more thoughts….
There were some storylines and characters that kinda dropped off, and I wanted to know the outcome. One of my first thoughts when I started listening was, “this is similar to Such A Fun Age”, and yes it was. Especially being that one of the narrators also performed SAFA. But it was in similar style and how the racial tensions weren’t harsh and heavy. Yet still notable.
But, in the end, I’m glad that I kept reading and didn’t let the negative reviews from one demographic deter me from seeing it through to the end. Sure, it’s an uncomfortable read because it forces you to come face to face with real issues happening in the world around us, which makes for an uncomfortable experience for others.
October 17, 2023
“Rebecca, Not Becky'' is told from the perspective of two upper middle class women living in Northern Virginia. Rebecca Myland is a stay-at-home mom living in a multimillion dollar home with her husband and two daughters. She is a white woman leading the diversity committee at her daughter's very non-diverse private school. De'Andrea Whitman and her husband and daughter move from Atlanta into the same gated community as the Myland's, and their daughter attends the same school, but is one of the only Black children there.
I found most of this book to be an uncomfortable read, and not because the topic of race, racism, and diversity are uncomfortable, but because so many of the characteristics of both families, and the host of supporting players, felt so stereotypically based on their races.
I found the middle of the story to be the best part of it, but did not like the beginning, or the ending, at all. It is hard to feel sympathetic towards Rebecca, living with all of the privileges of her wealth and status (I don't care that she feels stressed about managing all of the contractors coming in and out of her house to do things like build a koi fish pond to help with her mediation journey, or that she has a hard time relaxing in her fancy meditation room in her big house.
I found De'Andrea much more palatable, but hated that the experience she and her husband had near the very end of the book was rushed through and glossed over. It should have been one of, if not the, most important parts of the book, and throwing it in at the end felt wrong.
There were a few laughs to be had here and there, and some moments that many mom's will be able to relate to, but overall, I found this book to be poorly executed, and I would not recommend it to other readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amistad for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I found most of this book to be an uncomfortable read, and not because the topic of race, racism, and diversity are uncomfortable, but because so many of the characteristics of both families, and the host of supporting players, felt so stereotypically based on their races.
I found the middle of the story to be the best part of it, but did not like the beginning, or the ending, at all. It is hard to feel sympathetic towards Rebecca, living with all of the privileges of her wealth and status (I don't care that she feels stressed about managing all of the contractors coming in and out of her house to do things like build a koi fish pond to help with her mediation journey, or that she has a hard time relaxing in her fancy meditation room in her big house.
I found De'Andrea much more palatable, but hated that the experience she and her husband had near the very end of the book was rushed through and glossed over. It should have been one of, if not the, most important parts of the book, and throwing it in at the end felt wrong.
There were a few laughs to be had here and there, and some moments that many mom's will be able to relate to, but overall, I found this book to be poorly executed, and I would not recommend it to other readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amistad for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 1, 2024
This book is not an ordinary book—it’s not your run-of-the-mill women’s fiction piece about friendship and adversity. No, no. This piece is deeper. It requires thought and encourages action. It is emotional, vulnerable, and complicated. I suppose that’s no surprise.
I would almost venture to say that this is a non-fiction piece clothed in a narrative. It reads almost like a series of essays, except the book is character-driven. Unfortunately, it is not plot driven, and there is more telling than showing. Those are the biggest reason for my rating.
Other reasons for my rating are:
- unlikeable main characters
- shallow interactions between characters
- on-page conflict with off-page resolution
Really, I guess I had higher expectations for this book. But that’s not to say the book doesn’t have real world value. It poses questions and prompts conversations that we need to consider. And naturally, we shouldn’t stop at consideration.
If you want to read this book, please walk into it with your eyes open. It will leave you with more questions than answers, and I believe this is on purpose. This book is meant to challenge you. Additionally, be aware that there is no HEA in this story—because it is a reflection of the real world. Again, I believe this is intentional. We are meant to feel the discomfort of this book. And THAT is where the genius of this book lies.
Thank you to the authors, NetGalley, and Amistad for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. It was a pleasure.
I would almost venture to say that this is a non-fiction piece clothed in a narrative. It reads almost like a series of essays, except the book is character-driven. Unfortunately, it is not plot driven, and there is more telling than showing. Those are the biggest reason for my rating.
Other reasons for my rating are:
- unlikeable main characters
- shallow interactions between characters
- on-page conflict with off-page resolution
Really, I guess I had higher expectations for this book. But that’s not to say the book doesn’t have real world value. It poses questions and prompts conversations that we need to consider. And naturally, we shouldn’t stop at consideration.
If you want to read this book, please walk into it with your eyes open. It will leave you with more questions than answers, and I believe this is on purpose. This book is meant to challenge you. Additionally, be aware that there is no HEA in this story—because it is a reflection of the real world. Again, I believe this is intentional. We are meant to feel the discomfort of this book. And THAT is where the genius of this book lies.
Thank you to the authors, NetGalley, and Amistad for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. It was a pleasure.
December 6, 2023
De’Andrea, her husband, and their daughter are new to the suburbs in Virginia. De’Andrea is not happy to be leaving her comfortable life in Atlanta. This move has her overwhelmed and struggling to adjust to her new community.
Rebecca, Not Becky wasn’t my favorite book of the year, unfortunately. I had trouble relating to the characters and honestly, they weren’t very likable. This book will definitely have a specific audience and I wasn’t it. At first I had trouble getting into it but it ended up picking up and I was able to finish it rather than DNF, which is a plus! Overall, it felt a little lack luster but I really think I was just the wrong person for it. If this is on your TBR I still say you pick it up and give it a go, you may just enjoy it more than I did!
Thank you so much NetGalley and Amistad for the ARC and the chance to read and review it honestly.
Happy reading!
Rebecca, Not Becky wasn’t my favorite book of the year, unfortunately. I had trouble relating to the characters and honestly, they weren’t very likable. This book will definitely have a specific audience and I wasn’t it. At first I had trouble getting into it but it ended up picking up and I was able to finish it rather than DNF, which is a plus! Overall, it felt a little lack luster but I really think I was just the wrong person for it. If this is on your TBR I still say you pick it up and give it a go, you may just enjoy it more than I did!
Thank you so much NetGalley and Amistad for the ARC and the chance to read and review it honestly.
Happy reading!
December 29, 2023
So grateful for this book which reads like Chit Lit, yet addresses the causcasity of us liberal white women who read all of the books - or skimmed them in this case - but aren’t putting in the true work to be allies and dismantle white supremacy. Also grateful for the discussion of the Sandwich generation and the plots of aging parents with high care needs. Bring this book to your next book club and ask in what ways do you act like Rebecca. It will be a rich discussion.
January 19, 2024
Almost there on several fronts, but.. didn't quite make it. Unsatisfying conclusions and lack of persuasive stance on issues. Main two characters not accessible/relatable in my opinion and fairly static throughout. Side characters very underdeveloped but used as plot tools sporadically. Wasn't sure what it was trying to say about motherhood, wealth and privilege, care of the elderly, marriage/partnership, or, the main topic it was trying to address, racial issues.
April 21, 2024
I was very interested to read this book because of hearing about it on a webinar and reading the summary.
However, it fell short of my expectations. The characters just felt stiff and unnatural to me and pigeonholed into stereotypical roles.
I didn’t particularly care for either of the main characters.
I finished the book but it just wasn’t for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Amistad for the early read.
However, it fell short of my expectations. The characters just felt stiff and unnatural to me and pigeonholed into stereotypical roles.
I didn’t particularly care for either of the main characters.
I finished the book but it just wasn’t for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Amistad for the early read.
December 29, 2023
A well done treatment into a serious subject. At times, I think Rebecca’s character veered too far into caricature, because if she really were that clueless, she wouldn’t have kept trying. But it was still a great way to hear a lot of perspectives while the book mostly remained lighthearted.
January 3, 2024
Final 4.5
Great read dealing with surburban politics, allyship, and racism.
Felt timely, authentic, and developed.
Found myself rooting for both of the FMC.
Great read dealing with surburban politics, allyship, and racism.
Felt timely, authentic, and developed.
Found myself rooting for both of the FMC.
January 6, 2024
This is a good book. It only has a 3.57 rating, but l wonder if some people were uncomfortable with the subject. It was written by two authors, and you get two different perspectives about racism.
January 17, 2024
I kept wondering when something was going to happen.
If you like every cliche in the book and are into whatever is trending at the moment....
this might be for you.
If you like every cliche in the book and are into whatever is trending at the moment....
this might be for you.
June 23, 2025
Was drawn to this book because of the tittle and my name lol the lead characters read as Reese Witherspoon and keke Palmer who I both love as actresses. I really wanted to like it but it just missed the mark for me felt too day time TV’s take on mixed race friendships? Maybe more things connect if you’re American and in that environment I’m not sure. Maybe I’m just hurt because my names Becky and it’s constantly brought up how Becky’s suck haha
Read
February 15, 2024really specific and tuned into cultural conversations circa 2020, recommend for fans of women's fiction and light, fun looks at serious topics.
March 26, 2024
The message of this book and what it was all about I really loved and could relate too. There were a few parts that were a little cringy but that’s ok! I really loved how these authors came together to write this and I love the thoughts in the two characters heads. The book did just end without wrapping up some secondary story lines which was a little annoying.
December 20, 2024
Ok!!!! This is giving “we are not like them” but with children and a school storyline and I LIKED IT.
Gotta keep reading about race in America
Gotta keep reading about race in America
May 2, 2025
I was able to tolerate this book til the end. It had some decent moments, but overall the basic premise was too much for me to give more than 2 stars.
January 30, 2024
I occasionally felt like I didn’t relate to the characters well who are exactly my age. 😂 42. I noted a lack of awareness and maturity that I (wrongly) have assumed people my age naturally possess. I’m a white, college educated, stay at home mother, primarily, and I didn’t at all relate to Rebecca. My son is grown now, so I have literally raised a kind and capable adult who isn’t racist and I live in AL. I’m not sure if she isn’t very relatable to me bc I lack her vast wealth. I’m less concerned about the thoughts and opinions of others. I do care what people think but it’s the people whom I love that will carry the most weight to influence me.
I do appreciate what both authors were doing. I suggest taking the time to briefly look them up. This book tackles many complex situations but it doesn’t delve too deeply into all of them. As in life you can’t fully focus on each issue you have at the exact same time. Race and racism are the main subject for us to take away and discuss despite how uncomfortable that is to do. This connects the two main characters at the end of the book but they are also connected as caretakers to their ailing elderly relatives and their children. The ending focuses most on race and friendship, which made sense to me.
I didn’t go into my young life looking to climbing the corporate ladder or become a high earner so naturally I wouldn’t relate to De’Andrea’s internal struggle to find more meaning in her life. I do already see her as a fully formed person as a mother and caretaker and don’t relate to the consistent undervaluing of that I tend to see in most fiction. But that makes sense, I am not going to undervalue my own life choices. I am happy to see her find a way to feel more fulfilled but a little surprised the answer to so much time to find. Isn’t that what really wealthy people do, run charitable organizations funded by other extremely wealthy people?
I do appreciate what both authors were doing. I suggest taking the time to briefly look them up. This book tackles many complex situations but it doesn’t delve too deeply into all of them. As in life you can’t fully focus on each issue you have at the exact same time. Race and racism are the main subject for us to take away and discuss despite how uncomfortable that is to do. This connects the two main characters at the end of the book but they are also connected as caretakers to their ailing elderly relatives and their children. The ending focuses most on race and friendship, which made sense to me.
I didn’t go into my young life looking to climbing the corporate ladder or become a high earner so naturally I wouldn’t relate to De’Andrea’s internal struggle to find more meaning in her life. I do already see her as a fully formed person as a mother and caretaker and don’t relate to the consistent undervaluing of that I tend to see in most fiction. But that makes sense, I am not going to undervalue my own life choices. I am happy to see her find a way to feel more fulfilled but a little surprised the answer to so much time to find. Isn’t that what really wealthy people do, run charitable organizations funded by other extremely wealthy people?
February 2, 2024
The book started off a mess, thanks in large part to one of the narrators for me, but it really tapped into some huge racial tensions in a lighthearted, yet in your face way. I really enjoyed the sincerity, tenderness and openness that both characters shared. Both were also dealing with mother in laws with serious health conditions. Rebecca, Not Becky, follows the Whitman family, who is forced to relocate from their beloved Atlanta to Northern Virginia due to family commitments. Rolling Hills is very white, and Rebecca Myland, the head of the local private school’s Parent Diversity Committee, is very interested in making a black friend to prove that she is not racist. The book follows Rebecca’s attempts to befriend De’Andrea and De’Andrea’s struggle to find her place, both as professional who can make a difference and as a black woman in her community. In short, this was a decent read. I think the clear audience is older white woman who are starting their antiracist journey. My biggest complaint is that the story felt flat. The characters lacked substance and the plot was very heavy on telling, not showing. I feel like I never truly got to know any of the characters beyond the surface level. Still confused on Heidi… it was entertaining enough but not a book I would rush to recommend to others.
Thank you NetGalley, the author and Amistad for THE OPPORTUNITY
Thank you NetGalley, the author and Amistad for THE OPPORTUNITY
February 8, 2024
Audiobook. I really enjoyed listening to this one, and it probably worked better that way than reading it with the slang and dual voices. But the end of the book felt like a huge letdown - like the author threw in an Event and a Ending when it probably would’ve done better without such a forced/wrapped up conclusion.
May 16, 2024
2.5 stars - This book tackled some serious themes, and had a real chance to dissect big issues such as performative activism, racism, intersectionality, etc. Big ideas that were bogged down by juvenile dialogue. The characters were one dimensional, almost caricatures. I enjoyed it towards the 70% - 90%, then the ending fell short.
September 22, 2023
DeAndrea, little Nina and Malik, the father and husband, are on the way to a new life. They have been living in Atlanta, Georgia. Now, they are moving to Rolling Hills, Virginia where the population is mostly White. In Atlanta the majority of the communities are Black. De Andrea has many friends in Atlanta. She calls them her besties. Life seems perfect living close to Buckhead. Now, she will need to make new friends who will not necessarily understand her Black culture. Nor will she know anything about their way of life. Life will certainly become a challenge. Like on a roller coaster ride, she will need to hold on tightly and maintain some sort of self control for Nina, Malik and herself as they begin this current journey. She does not regret sharing this new experience with her therapist. She also keeps God in her thoughts. Ultimately, She wants to carve out time for herself. Giving so much to family time has caused her to lose herself. Her identity is fuzzy. Who am I has become a major question.
On the other side, Rebecca is curious and excited about the the new family's arrival. She is very interested in diversity. She quietly hopes that she will become a friend to the family while she battles with what to call the new neighbors. Should she use African American or Black? Well, so far she has a good attitude about the shakeup. "Rebecca, Not Becky." is filled with emotional fodder. Observing the two races while waiting to see how it all will shape up will make our emotions jump around like pool table balls.
With Rebecca's description of the Rolling Hills neighborhood you can taste the cuteness of the area. The gardens and shops are yummy candy. However, there is a very noticeable note on the bulletin board about Confederate monuments. Rebecca is surprised. She thought those type of monuments had already been removed long ago. So, here we are with Rebecca escorting us back into the real world. By the way, the children in the families are just adorable. There is Lyla, Isabella and Nina. Sure, there will come adjustments and questions. In the end, there is always new knowledge and maybe growth as strong as a sunflower. After all, you can always discuss Barack Obama's goatee. Yes, times are changing. Two women will take us on their never dull adventure. Why not wave hi to them? By the way, I almost forgot Todd. He is Rebecca's husband and the father of the two girls.
On the other side, Rebecca is curious and excited about the the new family's arrival. She is very interested in diversity. She quietly hopes that she will become a friend to the family while she battles with what to call the new neighbors. Should she use African American or Black? Well, so far she has a good attitude about the shakeup. "Rebecca, Not Becky." is filled with emotional fodder. Observing the two races while waiting to see how it all will shape up will make our emotions jump around like pool table balls.
With Rebecca's description of the Rolling Hills neighborhood you can taste the cuteness of the area. The gardens and shops are yummy candy. However, there is a very noticeable note on the bulletin board about Confederate monuments. Rebecca is surprised. She thought those type of monuments had already been removed long ago. So, here we are with Rebecca escorting us back into the real world. By the way, the children in the families are just adorable. There is Lyla, Isabella and Nina. Sure, there will come adjustments and questions. In the end, there is always new knowledge and maybe growth as strong as a sunflower. After all, you can always discuss Barack Obama's goatee. Yes, times are changing. Two women will take us on their never dull adventure. Why not wave hi to them? By the way, I almost forgot Todd. He is Rebecca's husband and the father of the two girls.
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