Mandem

by Iggy London (Editor)

What does it mean to be a Black man in contemporary Britain? This collection of essays from key contemporary thinkers and writers takes this question as its thesis, and attempts to break down some existing stereotypes about Black British manhood.

Across its examination, MANDEM probes into the importance of male role-models, and the unique relationship between mother and son. It explores the sexual pressure placed on young heterosexual men, whilst asking what contemporary Black queerness looks like.

224 pages, Hardcover

First published March 8, 2023

Reviews

[Ivy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mandem is a wonderful collection of essays exploring the stories and thoughts of black men and their masculinity. These essays help reinforce the truth that Black British men are not a monolith which has been an ongoing damaging stereotype. There is so much learning to be done and Mandem provides a starting point through the raw stories shared by each writer. Their stories will make you laugh and reflect. This is a book for everyone.

[Hilde Roi · Rating 3 out of 5]

A selection of short stories exploring what masculinity means for black boys and men growing up in the UK. These are very personal stories about amongst others heartbreak, dogs, and music. There is a story for everyone in here, the honesty and openness with which it is written makes he stories very accessible even if the topics aren't the easiest.

This book is for everyone who wants to broaden their horizon, and kind of also for those who don't want to but should ;)

[laurent · Rating 4 out of 5]

sat in this bookstore till i finished this. my first time doing that in years 🥺 tears were welling icl... still on a quest to read more books about masculinity and breaking out of tough man exterior. i love being a man <3

[Jemelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal. Loved all the short stories.

[Chris Birkin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I laughed. I cried. I learnt.
A fantastic collection of short stories.