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Black & Irish: Legends, Trailblazers & Everyday Heroes
A landmark publication in Irish history; this is a celebration of Black Irish identity. Published in collaboration with Black & Irish. Publishing 1st October 2023 Actors. Athletes. Activists. Style icons. Scientists. Influencers. Entrepreneurs. Black Irish people are blazing trails in every sphere of modern life. In the first ever book about Black Irish people, we take a look at the inspirational careers, dreams and achievements of legends, trailblazers and everyday heroes, including Ruth Negga, Gavin Bazunu, Dami Hope, Emma Dabiri, Rhasidat Adeleke and Phil Lynott. With stunning colour illustrations by Jessica Louis.
224 pages, Paperback
First published April 9, 2024
7 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
September 29, 2024
what a beautifully inspiring book that i wish younger cheyanne could have read
this book (aimed more so at a younger audience) details stories of many black and mixed irish people and their experiences of being both black/mixed and irish
i was actually shocked at how many people i didn’t know and the paths they had set out on! some really inspiring people in this book, that every irish person should be aware of!!!
i have also had the pleasure of meeting one of the authors, leon diop, (via zoom) during COVID for an interview on the BLM movement! so it’s amazing to see how fair he’s come!
favourite chapters: elliot kwelele; fig o reilly; paul mcgrath; christine buckley; boidu sayeh; phil lynott; patrick martins; rhasidat adeleke; emer o neill
this book (aimed more so at a younger audience) details stories of many black and mixed irish people and their experiences of being both black/mixed and irish
i was actually shocked at how many people i didn’t know and the paths they had set out on! some really inspiring people in this book, that every irish person should be aware of!!!
i have also had the pleasure of meeting one of the authors, leon diop, (via zoom) during COVID for an interview on the BLM movement! so it’s amazing to see how fair he’s come!
favourite chapters: elliot kwelele; fig o reilly; paul mcgrath; christine buckley; boidu sayeh; phil lynott; patrick martins; rhasidat adeleke; emer o neill
November 21, 2023
Very well researched but still laid out in language and level of detail that's perfect for young readers. Adults like me can also learn alot about how to be anti-racist, support our Black and mixed race Irish peers. I learned alot about activists, sports stars and musicians I wasn't aware of and some more about some people I already admire. The sad fact is that white Irish people have alot to answer for (such as the various institutional abuses in the stories, often a white mother leaving her child in one. In some cases there may have been an inability to care for the child but these homes were truly awful) and can do so much more we can do to make Ireland the real place of 1000 welcomes rather than where a Black Irish person gets asked where they're "originally from".
April 2, 2024
In honor of Irish-American Heritage Month and St. Patrick's Day, I read an advance copy of Leon Diop's and Briana Fitzsimons' new nonfiction book titled Black & Irish: Legends, Trailblazers & Everyday Heroes. Very quickly, I realized this was a literary gem worthy of taking notes on.
Black & Irish is an informative, beautifully illustrated book featuring people of color that are not so well-known. I learned, made annotations and did further research on a few of the Black Irish people featured. Without these legends being in the spotlight, I probably would not have known their contribution to the community.
I am slightly disappointed by the scope of the research. Most of the people featured were from the same place of Nigeria. It was more-so a celebration of Nigerian-Irish trailblazers. I am sure there are more Black people in Ireland to be recognized.
Nevertheless, this new release is indeed a celebration of actors, athletes, icons, activists, influencers and trailblazers. The stunning addition of illustrations by Jessica Louis add vibrant color to each profile. The layout reminds me of the Rebel Girls series. I recommend Black & Irish to educators and readers of nonfiction for an inspirational read.
Happy Early Pub Day, Leon Diop and Briana Fitzsimons! Black & Irish will be available Tuesday, April 9.
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
Black & Irish is an informative, beautifully illustrated book featuring people of color that are not so well-known. I learned, made annotations and did further research on a few of the Black Irish people featured. Without these legends being in the spotlight, I probably would not have known their contribution to the community.
I am slightly disappointed by the scope of the research. Most of the people featured were from the same place of Nigeria. It was more-so a celebration of Nigerian-Irish trailblazers. I am sure there are more Black people in Ireland to be recognized.
Nevertheless, this new release is indeed a celebration of actors, athletes, icons, activists, influencers and trailblazers. The stunning addition of illustrations by Jessica Louis add vibrant color to each profile. The layout reminds me of the Rebel Girls series. I recommend Black & Irish to educators and readers of nonfiction for an inspirational read.
Happy Early Pub Day, Leon Diop and Briana Fitzsimons! Black & Irish will be available Tuesday, April 9.
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 4, 2024
I really enjoyed reading the life stories of those featured. The profiles reflect a changing Ireland and that the Black & Irish community have positively contributed to the sporting, artistic and cultural fabric of Irish life. The challenges facing any minority are evident and the aspiration of being part of, is well described. I was disappointed that the diversity that must exist among the Black & Irish was not more represented and that the majority of those featured shared the same ethnic background. As a result, I feel the richness of the multicultural fabric of Black & Irish could have given greater voice to more diverse ethnic origins.
April 5, 2024
I am disappointed but not surprised by the lack of diversity in this book. There are so many immigrants in Ireland from many different countries.
There are so many countries in Africa yet we mainly hear from Nigerians or, half Nigerians only.
The authors never mention the problems that Ireland had with bogus asylum seekers having an "anchor baby". I really feel that this is too important an issue to ignore as more and more undocumented are arriving in their droves.
What is also irritating is that some comments alleging racism are stated as fact rather than providing proof. If accusations of racism are being thrown about against literally everyone in the entire country, institutions, systems etc yet not one single shred of evidence is ever offered.
I found Samantha Mumba's absence puzzling as she is Ireland's most famous Black singer.
I have a HUGE criticism about the book when telling the story of a woman who:
"believes that because she is Black, her Austistic traits weren't interpreted properly".
SERIOUSLY? Without offering any evidence or proof a Black person is blaming teachers and medical staff for failing to diagnose her autism in Ireland on racism? There may be many reasons for not recognising and/or diagnosing autism but to blame racism is total bullsh*t.
The author continues "She was often seen as an 'angry Black woman' during a meltdown rather than an Autistic person who was struggling".
I have a hard time believing that this phrase was used by anyone other than the interviewee herself which leads me to my next complaint about this book.
While the authors mention once that Ireland had a history of Irish people leaving the country - emigration, only recently have foreigners come into the country - immigration.
Therefore no preconceptions or certain prejudices existed in Ireland that other countries may have. The concept of "Angry Black Man" or " Angry Black Woman" is not what Irish would automatically think and assume. This may be a prejudice in other countries e.g. UK or USA but Ireland did not have this issue. Most of the Black immigrants are of African origin not American yet there is too much influence from American race issues. Ireland has it's own unique history so race relations cannot be transplanted simply from one country to the next.
In addition no "allowance" (for lack of a better word) is ever made towards the Irish as adjustments have to made on both sides. Ireland simply was not accustomed to so many new arrivals and many could not speak English and certainly couldn't speak any Irish. Schools had to accommodate new arrivals all of a sudden and extra attention had to be given to some new students as they would be behind the curriculum. This would have placed a strain on schools and teachers. Often translators would be paid at cost to the state I.e. the Irish tax-payer. This is never mentioned by the authors.
One more critism ( and I have plenty), is that all the adult immigrants had a choice about coming here. I appreciate that children are brought by their parents but the subjects interviewed often complain about being the only Black person in a job, class, etc. I mean what did they expect in Ireland? Didn't they do any research into the country they were moving to? If I move to India or Nigeria I can't then complain if I am the only Swedish, Italian person in the class! It's written that some parents were concerned that their child was the only Black child in a class ... well why on earth move to a predominantly white country if that is a concern?
Almost finally no mention is given to "Raspberry Cordial Gate" ( think Watergate scandal but in a restaurant in a hotel in Galway) where being served the wrong drink in a restaurant is now racism. I think you all know who I mean 😉🙄 . Likewise this interviewee was also incorrect about statues outside the Sherbourne and has her own special Twitter (now called X) account.
There are so many countries in Africa yet we mainly hear from Nigerians or, half Nigerians only.
The authors never mention the problems that Ireland had with bogus asylum seekers having an "anchor baby". I really feel that this is too important an issue to ignore as more and more undocumented are arriving in their droves.
What is also irritating is that some comments alleging racism are stated as fact rather than providing proof. If accusations of racism are being thrown about against literally everyone in the entire country, institutions, systems etc yet not one single shred of evidence is ever offered.
I found Samantha Mumba's absence puzzling as she is Ireland's most famous Black singer.
I have a HUGE criticism about the book when telling the story of a woman who:
"believes that because she is Black, her Austistic traits weren't interpreted properly".
SERIOUSLY? Without offering any evidence or proof a Black person is blaming teachers and medical staff for failing to diagnose her autism in Ireland on racism? There may be many reasons for not recognising and/or diagnosing autism but to blame racism is total bullsh*t.
The author continues "She was often seen as an 'angry Black woman' during a meltdown rather than an Autistic person who was struggling".
I have a hard time believing that this phrase was used by anyone other than the interviewee herself which leads me to my next complaint about this book.
While the authors mention once that Ireland had a history of Irish people leaving the country - emigration, only recently have foreigners come into the country - immigration.
Therefore no preconceptions or certain prejudices existed in Ireland that other countries may have. The concept of "Angry Black Man" or " Angry Black Woman" is not what Irish would automatically think and assume. This may be a prejudice in other countries e.g. UK or USA but Ireland did not have this issue. Most of the Black immigrants are of African origin not American yet there is too much influence from American race issues. Ireland has it's own unique history so race relations cannot be transplanted simply from one country to the next.
In addition no "allowance" (for lack of a better word) is ever made towards the Irish as adjustments have to made on both sides. Ireland simply was not accustomed to so many new arrivals and many could not speak English and certainly couldn't speak any Irish. Schools had to accommodate new arrivals all of a sudden and extra attention had to be given to some new students as they would be behind the curriculum. This would have placed a strain on schools and teachers. Often translators would be paid at cost to the state I.e. the Irish tax-payer. This is never mentioned by the authors.
One more critism ( and I have plenty), is that all the adult immigrants had a choice about coming here. I appreciate that children are brought by their parents but the subjects interviewed often complain about being the only Black person in a job, class, etc. I mean what did they expect in Ireland? Didn't they do any research into the country they were moving to? If I move to India or Nigeria I can't then complain if I am the only Swedish, Italian person in the class! It's written that some parents were concerned that their child was the only Black child in a class ... well why on earth move to a predominantly white country if that is a concern?
Almost finally no mention is given to "Raspberry Cordial Gate" ( think Watergate scandal but in a restaurant in a hotel in Galway) where being served the wrong drink in a restaurant is now racism. I think you all know who I mean 😉🙄 . Likewise this interviewee was also incorrect about statues outside the Sherbourne and has her own special Twitter (now called X) account.
November 5, 2024
Culture and identity converge in the lived realities of high-achieving and prominent Irish nationals who identify as Black or mixed-race, a group often referred to as 'Black Irish.' In "Black and Irish," Leon Diop and Briana Fitzimmons raise awareness about their years-long project to educate the world about the contributions of 25 Black celebrities, writers, athletes, politicians, and others who are challenging and changing narratives about Irish identity. Each profile spotlights key moments in the lives of prominent Black Irish individuals making a difference in their fields.
The roots of Black folks in Ireland run deep, tracing back to the significant visit of American abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Throughout the 20th century, Ireland became a beacon, attracting migration from across the Pan-African diaspora. Today, the vibrant and resilient Black Irish community continues to flourish, growing in power and influence.
Approaching this book from my perspective as an Asian Immigrant to the United States, I found resonance in the stories of first- and second-generation Black Irish folks. Their experiences echoed those of other newcomers to the U.S., fostering a sense of shared understanding and unity. I was particularly moved by the all-Black collaboration highlighted in the book, which includes illustrated portraits by Jessica Louis.
The authors shared the project’s solidarity with the global Black Lives Matter movement that was spurred by the tragic murder of George Floyd. This revelation was a touching testimony to the enduring potency of antiracist education and action.
The roots of Black folks in Ireland run deep, tracing back to the significant visit of American abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Throughout the 20th century, Ireland became a beacon, attracting migration from across the Pan-African diaspora. Today, the vibrant and resilient Black Irish community continues to flourish, growing in power and influence.
Approaching this book from my perspective as an Asian Immigrant to the United States, I found resonance in the stories of first- and second-generation Black Irish folks. Their experiences echoed those of other newcomers to the U.S., fostering a sense of shared understanding and unity. I was particularly moved by the all-Black collaboration highlighted in the book, which includes illustrated portraits by Jessica Louis.
The authors shared the project’s solidarity with the global Black Lives Matter movement that was spurred by the tragic murder of George Floyd. This revelation was a touching testimony to the enduring potency of antiracist education and action.
August 28, 2024
Thank you to YABC for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I found this to be a well-researched and fascinating read, presented in an educational and approachable manner befitting of its target upper YA audience.
While visiting Ireland, I realized for the first time that it, like my native United States, is a land of immigrants; I could just as easily order kabobs as bangers and mash! Though, the books on Irish history, myth, and fictional tales only presented me with the stereotypical pale-skinned, red-haired, and feisty tempered Irish. This a wonderful example of the melting pot that Ireland truly is and includes historical and modern figures from pop culture, science, and business.
I have read negative feedback that the majority of entries represent only those of Nigerian heritage. Being neither Irish nor black I do not feel qualified to speak to this narrative, but felt I would be remiss to not mention it. I will say that it is a step in the right direction and I hope that both its 2024 nomination for a British Book Award and its US release will prove there is a high-level interest in reading these stories.
Overall, I appreciate and encourage the new voice and will recommend it to fellow librarians and readers.
I found this to be a well-researched and fascinating read, presented in an educational and approachable manner befitting of its target upper YA audience.
While visiting Ireland, I realized for the first time that it, like my native United States, is a land of immigrants; I could just as easily order kabobs as bangers and mash! Though, the books on Irish history, myth, and fictional tales only presented me with the stereotypical pale-skinned, red-haired, and feisty tempered Irish. This a wonderful example of the melting pot that Ireland truly is and includes historical and modern figures from pop culture, science, and business.
I have read negative feedback that the majority of entries represent only those of Nigerian heritage. Being neither Irish nor black I do not feel qualified to speak to this narrative, but felt I would be remiss to not mention it. I will say that it is a step in the right direction and I hope that both its 2024 nomination for a British Book Award and its US release will prove there is a high-level interest in reading these stories.
Overall, I appreciate and encourage the new voice and will recommend it to fellow librarians and readers.
December 6, 2023
It's become common over the last few years to see children's books featuring heroes in various spheres - we started out with the Rebel Girls titles, and several other publishers have done similar titles. However, this one is aimed a little older than most, making it perfect for someone who's enjoyed the Rebel Girls but has grown out of them.
As you can tell from the title, this volume features Black Irish in a variety of walks of life - we've got actors, activists, entrepreneurs, musicians and far more. They go into a nice amount of detail about each person's life and their specific trade, along with notes about aspects of their lives and short features on other similar people. It's enough information without being overwhelming.
The art is a huge part of how effective the book is; each person has a portrait in bright, cheerful colours, highlighting one or two parts of their personality. It's really effective - the first time I picked up the book I flicked through just looking at the pictures before I looked at anything else!
It's a great read and it will certainly be high on my list of recommendations this Christmas (sorry, I said the C word...)
As you can tell from the title, this volume features Black Irish in a variety of walks of life - we've got actors, activists, entrepreneurs, musicians and far more. They go into a nice amount of detail about each person's life and their specific trade, along with notes about aspects of their lives and short features on other similar people. It's enough information without being overwhelming.
The art is a huge part of how effective the book is; each person has a portrait in bright, cheerful colours, highlighting one or two parts of their personality. It's really effective - the first time I picked up the book I flicked through just looking at the pictures before I looked at anything else!
It's a great read and it will certainly be high on my list of recommendations this Christmas (sorry, I said the C word...)
December 7, 2023
Whether you were born or emigrated, have family roots, or feel welcomed/connected there, Ireland will always be home!
Thank you, Little Island Books & NetGalley for allowing me to read & review this book honestly! Just because I am Irish doesn't mean I am biased, I was really happy to learn more about my fellow Irish <3
As a Belfast Girl, I ate this up. I loved learning more about my country & the people who make it up. The stories shared by Black and mixed Irish folks were genuinely inspiring and eye-opening and gave me a glimpse into moments from history (the industrial schools) that I didn't know about before.
The celebration of those mentioned; their careers, their legacies, their hopes for the future & what being Irish means to them as it encompasses their identity was great!
This is perfect for young readers 12+ and teens as it highlights many different areas: activism, hair care, science, influencing, education, media and sports. Plus, the tiny colourful information /index areas are beneficial so you can stay connected to the text without having to google words that may be unknown.
Thank you so much for allowing me to read this book!
Thank you, Little Island Books & NetGalley for allowing me to read & review this book honestly! Just because I am Irish doesn't mean I am biased, I was really happy to learn more about my fellow Irish <3
As a Belfast Girl, I ate this up. I loved learning more about my country & the people who make it up. The stories shared by Black and mixed Irish folks were genuinely inspiring and eye-opening and gave me a glimpse into moments from history (the industrial schools) that I didn't know about before.
The celebration of those mentioned; their careers, their legacies, their hopes for the future & what being Irish means to them as it encompasses their identity was great!
This is perfect for young readers 12+ and teens as it highlights many different areas: activism, hair care, science, influencing, education, media and sports. Plus, the tiny colourful information /index areas are beneficial so you can stay connected to the text without having to google words that may be unknown.
Thank you so much for allowing me to read this book!
December 6, 2023
One of my favourite books of the year!
So many inspiring Irish trail blazers.
I really want this to be made into a picture book so younger children can learn about these amazing individuals.
Each individual is amazing to read about and everyone can be inspired by them.
So many inspiring Irish trail blazers.
I really want this to be made into a picture book so younger children can learn about these amazing individuals.
Each individual is amazing to read about and everyone can be inspired by them.
December 23, 2023
Very informative, interesting and beautifully illustrated 🥰
June 20, 2024
Interesting read! I didn’t really think there was a lot of famous black and Irish celebs, and I’m glad this easy-to-read book gave me info about multiple generations!
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January 14, 2024Well-researched and written in very accessible language (I loved the little side-notes that gave more detail on different term, historical points and facts referenced in the main text), this book is a great introduction to biographical works for young people. It's also beautifully illustrated, and I feel like more advanced readers from the 9-12 age range could also enjoy it.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews