Mixed

by Nicole Zelniker, Julián Esteban Torres López (Foreword)

The definition of families is widening, whether it’s because of mixed-race relationships, interracial adoption, or numerous other factors. Today, it is important to hear from a growing population about race, their shifting identities, and what family means to them.At the heart of the issue are the mixed-race families. Many mixed-race children have had difficulties fitting in, whether with one race or the other. In mixed-race relationships, one partner may face racism, while the other may not, or else they will experience racism in different ways. Children who have been adopted into families that identify as a race that is not theirs often find that they struggle to fit in with their families as well as with people who identify as their own race. Not only are these families navigating US American culture at large, but they also must navigate their own family structures and what it means to be mixed.Journalist Nicole Zelniker takes us on personal journeys to help us glimpse into overlooked worlds so we can more fully grasp what it means to be mixed. Zelniker spoke to dozens of mixed-race families and individuals, as well as experts in the field—such as psychologist Cirleen DeBlaere and historians José Moya and Karl Jacoby—about their own experiences, with the hope to fill a gap in the very important conversation about race in the US today.

191 pages, Paperback

Published March 19, 2019

About the author

Nicole Zelniker (she/they) is the indie author of several books, including FROM WHERE WE ARE and WE ARE MADE OF SCARS & STARLIGHT, which have both been nominated for Pushcart Prizes, and her young adult debut, ALL I KNOW SO FAR. She’s also the founder of Knee Brace Press, which is an online literary magazine devoted to stories about disability and mental health.

In her free time, Nicole enjoys re-reading her favorite books, talking about the intersection of queerness and chronic illness on the internet, and cuddling her formerly semi-feral tabby cat. You can keep up with them on TikTok at @nicolewritesbooks or Threads, Bluesky, and Instagram at @nicolezelniker.

Reviews

[Zzz Z · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting dive into the personal hardships faced by members of mixed-race families. Interspersed with important data points and psychological insights, this fundamentally journalistic endeavor really cuts directly to the point -- these are the conflicting emotions brought on by how society segregates races, ethnicities, nationalities, etc. Zelniker showcases her skill for interviewing, writing a quick but powerful book that will leave you thinking long after you've put the book down.