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Sellout
Winner of the 2011 International Book Awards! Finalist of the 2011 Global E-book Awards! Finalist in the 2011 Next Generation Indie Book Awards! People who date interracially are often called traitors to their own kind. Self-haters. Sellouts .
Loan Officer Tammy McDonald has just come out of another failed relationship with a wannabe thug. To break this destructive pattern, she leaves her home city of Dallas for San Diego. As she settles in rainbow California, fantasies of meeting an ebony prince fade, so she eyes Dale Bristol as a potential ivory replacement.
Terrell Jackson is San Diego's only black optometrist. Women regularly drop in for more than just eye exams, but he stays true to his girl Tasha until a wet dream unleashes a ridiculous outburst. Fed up with her jealous fits, he denounces the common "dedramanators" in his life-black women.
Even though Penelope Miller was raised in the South by a racist father once affiliated with the KKK, she can't ignore her attraction to black men. But she never expected to fall in love with one...nor did she expect her "interracial felony" to threaten their lives.
SELLOUT follows these three individuals and the consequences of dating outside their race. In the quest to find what they think is missing in their lives, they encounter guilt, fear and mess they never anticipated...including murder.
Loan Officer Tammy McDonald has just come out of another failed relationship with a wannabe thug. To break this destructive pattern, she leaves her home city of Dallas for San Diego. As she settles in rainbow California, fantasies of meeting an ebony prince fade, so she eyes Dale Bristol as a potential ivory replacement.
Terrell Jackson is San Diego's only black optometrist. Women regularly drop in for more than just eye exams, but he stays true to his girl Tasha until a wet dream unleashes a ridiculous outburst. Fed up with her jealous fits, he denounces the common "dedramanators" in his life-black women.
Even though Penelope Miller was raised in the South by a racist father once affiliated with the KKK, she can't ignore her attraction to black men. But she never expected to fall in love with one...nor did she expect her "interracial felony" to threaten their lives.
SELLOUT follows these three individuals and the consequences of dating outside their race. In the quest to find what they think is missing in their lives, they encounter guilt, fear and mess they never anticipated...including murder.
292 pages, Paperback
First published June 7, 2010
13 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
James W. Lewis
7 books65 followersJAMES W. LEWIS is the award-winning bestselling author of three novels, TANGLED, SELLOUT, and A HARD MAN IS GOOD TO FIND. After spending twenty years in the Navy, James retired from active duty and is now a personal trainer and exercise physiologist in Northern California.
James is also extremely passionate about health and fitness. You can often find him screaming at the top of his lungs while leading a fitness class, doing high-intensity exercises with college students; or teaching older adults the benefits of physical activity for disease management in a cardiac rehab facility.
James is also extremely passionate about health and fitness. You can often find him screaming at the top of his lungs while leading a fitness class, doing high-intensity exercises with college students; or teaching older adults the benefits of physical activity for disease management in a cardiac rehab facility.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 16, 2011
This was one of my book club selections and I enjoyed the book about interracial relationships. The only problem I had was I felt that it ended to soon. I could see a possible sequel.
October 23, 2011
This book was a surprisingly good read. For me, the cover spoke that it would be an ordinary boy meets girl and girl meets boy, yada yada yada. And did I mention that the story was centered on inter-racial dating? But after a few chapters and I mean a few chapters this book took a turn to the dark side (no pun intended), I’ll tell you how in a minute. Each character was developed and the reader really got to relate and felt for each one as the story progressed. Penelope, Tammy, Sheryl (who was my most hated character) all had a reason for the way they related to relationships in particular, with black men. Then there was Terrell and Dedrick, the explorers of the other world, who I have found some respect for. Their decision to test the “vanilla” coffee may not have been initially well warranted but it was definitely a learning experience to their self-exploration.
At this time I would like to thank James W. Lewis for pointing out just how argumentative and self-destruction black women can be in their relationships with good black men. This book has expressed that all parties, black, white, male and female need to take responsibility for the choices in companions that are made. He, the author, also showed the best part of black love and how romantic, passionate and committed African Americans can be in a relationship with whomever. This is a side that most authors don’t illustrate.
So once James Lewis got past the “snow bunny” and “jungle fever” type of references, he provided a love story, a suspenseful story and an action fiction all in one book. I was infuriated, dejected, frightened and pleased while reading Sellout. It truly presented more emotion than I had anticipated and that is a great characteristic for me reading this novel. Despite starting off slow, it grew and moved and tasseled my strings of hope that one day there will be more books by African Americans addressing social issues without glorifying stereotypes.
This is not a self-help book or anything of that nature; it is fiction and a great one at that. 4 1/2 stars.
At this time I would like to thank James W. Lewis for pointing out just how argumentative and self-destruction black women can be in their relationships with good black men. This book has expressed that all parties, black, white, male and female need to take responsibility for the choices in companions that are made. He, the author, also showed the best part of black love and how romantic, passionate and committed African Americans can be in a relationship with whomever. This is a side that most authors don’t illustrate.
So once James Lewis got past the “snow bunny” and “jungle fever” type of references, he provided a love story, a suspenseful story and an action fiction all in one book. I was infuriated, dejected, frightened and pleased while reading Sellout. It truly presented more emotion than I had anticipated and that is a great characteristic for me reading this novel. Despite starting off slow, it grew and moved and tasseled my strings of hope that one day there will be more books by African Americans addressing social issues without glorifying stereotypes.
This is not a self-help book or anything of that nature; it is fiction and a great one at that. 4 1/2 stars.
December 26, 2010
If Only Color Didn't Matter,
James W. Lewis uses alternating first-person narrative to tell the stories of three very different people struggling with interracial dating and all that comes with it.
Tammy McDonald is fed up with men - black men. On a relationship losing streak she wonders if maybe it’s time to switch things up. After all, black men, in droves, have been jumping ship by dating women other than black women. Well, two can play that game, and Tammy decides it’s time to see if the grass is really greener on the other side.
Once you go black, you never go back, a statement Penelope Miller has found to be true. Despite her racist upbringing, she feels differently and is secretly involved with a black coworker. But what’s done in the dark always comes to light, and not everyone is as willing to accept Penelope’s choice of boyfriend.
Terrell Jackson has been there and done that with black women and has the t-shirt to show for it. Tired of the attitude that comes with dating a black woman, he is looking for an easier road to travel. Seeing the success his best friend Dedrick has been having with white women, Terrell decides to turn his back on black women.
Lewis speaks to the obvious but too often unaddressed. He cuts straight to the truth, hitting on all cylinders. I appreciate the fact that the author did not stay surface but went deeper to expose and establish the ultimate reasons each character chose to make the decisions made, something many in these real life situations don’t know, don’t recognize or won’t acknowledge. Imbued with emotion and reality, “Sellout” is a novel well worth reading. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, it’s been difficult as of late to come up with an answer when asked what good books are out. “Sellout” definitely qualifies as a good book and I easily recommend it.
James W. Lewis has caught my attention and I look forward to his next endeavor.
Reviewed by: Toni
4.5 stars
James W. Lewis uses alternating first-person narrative to tell the stories of three very different people struggling with interracial dating and all that comes with it.
Tammy McDonald is fed up with men - black men. On a relationship losing streak she wonders if maybe it’s time to switch things up. After all, black men, in droves, have been jumping ship by dating women other than black women. Well, two can play that game, and Tammy decides it’s time to see if the grass is really greener on the other side.
Once you go black, you never go back, a statement Penelope Miller has found to be true. Despite her racist upbringing, she feels differently and is secretly involved with a black coworker. But what’s done in the dark always comes to light, and not everyone is as willing to accept Penelope’s choice of boyfriend.
Terrell Jackson has been there and done that with black women and has the t-shirt to show for it. Tired of the attitude that comes with dating a black woman, he is looking for an easier road to travel. Seeing the success his best friend Dedrick has been having with white women, Terrell decides to turn his back on black women.
Lewis speaks to the obvious but too often unaddressed. He cuts straight to the truth, hitting on all cylinders. I appreciate the fact that the author did not stay surface but went deeper to expose and establish the ultimate reasons each character chose to make the decisions made, something many in these real life situations don’t know, don’t recognize or won’t acknowledge. Imbued with emotion and reality, “Sellout” is a novel well worth reading. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, it’s been difficult as of late to come up with an answer when asked what good books are out. “Sellout” definitely qualifies as a good book and I easily recommend it.
James W. Lewis has caught my attention and I look forward to his next endeavor.
Reviewed by: Toni
4.5 stars
February 1, 2014
Thought Provoking
While I have read a couple of IR books this one seemed to hit home for me. Crossing color lines and the emotions of those on the outside seem to be portrayed how I see them in my everyday life. IR dating is a tough thing. It surely is no cake walk and that was sure and proved in this novel. Who people love is not the next person’s business but that doesn't seem true in the world we live in. Mr. Lewis does a good job of portraying the hatred that IR couples face in the world that still holds true in the year 2014. While most of the situations seemed to be typical reasons to jump and date outside the race. I did enjoy reading and relating at some points.
Tammy is tired of dead beat black men. After dating Craig she decided to date a white man how will this work out for the professional black sister? Penelope was raised by a racist father and her brother followed in his footsteps. Not a racist bone in her body she can't seem to leave the "dark chocolate" alone. Will she ever be able to share her love of black men with her family? Derrick loves his "snow bunnies" his sister Sheryl hates fact he won't date black women. Will Sheryl ever accept fact her bother is in love with Penelope? Last but not least, we have Terrell a thirty something year old doctor who is sick of black women and their loud mouth, neck rolling attitudes and decided to jump to the other side. Will he be happy on the other side of the tracks?
Everything about this novel was average to me. The reason behind the jumping ship of said race was nothing special about the situations. The ending was a little to clean cut can't change folk’s racist thinking in a matter of minutes, which just is not possible. All in all a solid novel it just didn't have the wow factor. I will try this author in the future as this story was enjoyable enough.
SiStar Tea
3.25 star rating
Jan review.
While I have read a couple of IR books this one seemed to hit home for me. Crossing color lines and the emotions of those on the outside seem to be portrayed how I see them in my everyday life. IR dating is a tough thing. It surely is no cake walk and that was sure and proved in this novel. Who people love is not the next person’s business but that doesn't seem true in the world we live in. Mr. Lewis does a good job of portraying the hatred that IR couples face in the world that still holds true in the year 2014. While most of the situations seemed to be typical reasons to jump and date outside the race. I did enjoy reading and relating at some points.
Tammy is tired of dead beat black men. After dating Craig she decided to date a white man how will this work out for the professional black sister? Penelope was raised by a racist father and her brother followed in his footsteps. Not a racist bone in her body she can't seem to leave the "dark chocolate" alone. Will she ever be able to share her love of black men with her family? Derrick loves his "snow bunnies" his sister Sheryl hates fact he won't date black women. Will Sheryl ever accept fact her bother is in love with Penelope? Last but not least, we have Terrell a thirty something year old doctor who is sick of black women and their loud mouth, neck rolling attitudes and decided to jump to the other side. Will he be happy on the other side of the tracks?
Everything about this novel was average to me. The reason behind the jumping ship of said race was nothing special about the situations. The ending was a little to clean cut can't change folk’s racist thinking in a matter of minutes, which just is not possible. All in all a solid novel it just didn't have the wow factor. I will try this author in the future as this story was enjoyable enough.
SiStar Tea
3.25 star rating
Jan review.
December 18, 2011
Something new?
Tyrell and Dedrick are two high powered brothers: handsome, successful and single. They also have something else in common...their preference for dating "snowbunnies." Tammy is beautiful but can't seem to catch a break when it comes to dating. She's never been interested in crossing the color line but now she is beginning to rethink things. Penelope is gorgeous yet, she harbors a secret preference that could cause her deeply racist family to disown her.
Lewis' novel Sellout is a quick, entertaining read. It is also a novel about the ugliness that dating people of a different color can create. I am pleased that Lewis has introduced a topic that many of us have talked about...why some men (and women) choose to date outside of their race. It brings to light the stereotypes we have in our community. It also shows how true love can conquer any type of negativity.
The only thing that kept this book from being a 5 star read is that I felt the story ended rather abruptly. However, I do not feel the need for a sequel because I was left with more answers than questions when I finished.
This was the first Lewis book I have read and I will definitely be reading more.
Tyrell and Dedrick are two high powered brothers: handsome, successful and single. They also have something else in common...their preference for dating "snowbunnies." Tammy is beautiful but can't seem to catch a break when it comes to dating. She's never been interested in crossing the color line but now she is beginning to rethink things. Penelope is gorgeous yet, she harbors a secret preference that could cause her deeply racist family to disown her.
Lewis' novel Sellout is a quick, entertaining read. It is also a novel about the ugliness that dating people of a different color can create. I am pleased that Lewis has introduced a topic that many of us have talked about...why some men (and women) choose to date outside of their race. It brings to light the stereotypes we have in our community. It also shows how true love can conquer any type of negativity.
The only thing that kept this book from being a 5 star read is that I felt the story ended rather abruptly. However, I do not feel the need for a sequel because I was left with more answers than questions when I finished.
This was the first Lewis book I have read and I will definitely be reading more.
July 10, 2011
Sellout is the story of three individuals (an African-American male and female, and a Caucasian female) who decide to date outside of their race for various reasons. They encounter prejudice from both sides of the fence and face their own challenges that come from their choices.
I liked following each character’s story, seeing why they took the path they did and what made them eventually decide what was right for them. I identified with two of the three main characters and really enjoyed watching them work their way back to where they were determined not to go.
Pacing is important to me as a reader and I read the book within a few days, as time permitted. The characters were vibrant and true-to-life. Based on characterization, it was easy to see why two out of three of the main players made their choices. There were some laugh-out-loud comments and situations and there were a few scenes that gave me anxious moments.
If anything, I thought the book was too short. I was getting ready to go a bit further with the budding romance between two of my favourite characters, but I was at the end of the book by that time.
See full review at http://readerssuite.blogspot.com/2011...
I liked following each character’s story, seeing why they took the path they did and what made them eventually decide what was right for them. I identified with two of the three main characters and really enjoyed watching them work their way back to where they were determined not to go.
Pacing is important to me as a reader and I read the book within a few days, as time permitted. The characters were vibrant and true-to-life. Based on characterization, it was easy to see why two out of three of the main players made their choices. There were some laugh-out-loud comments and situations and there were a few scenes that gave me anxious moments.
If anything, I thought the book was too short. I was getting ready to go a bit further with the budding romance between two of my favourite characters, but I was at the end of the book by that time.
See full review at http://readerssuite.blogspot.com/2011...
May 18, 2012
Wow what can I say. I thought that this was a really good book. This book addressed a lot of things im sure many people are not willing to admit unless they are with a friend they can trust.
SellOut was a book about interacial dating and how people view it. The book follows three people (a white woman, a black woman, and a black male). These people go through personal journey's in dealing with realtionships within different races.
The book also opened up the minds of those, because i will admit ive said the same things the book has said being a black female .. like omg why do black men get rich and famous and get with a white woman.
This book was really good though it has a lot of drama and action and a lot of things people may deal with when it comes to interacial dating and dealing with family and coworkers and friends. I dont want to say too much because I dont want to ruin the book. It was a really good read with lots of pages for only .99.
So do you Sellout or Stayin.
SellOut was a book about interacial dating and how people view it. The book follows three people (a white woman, a black woman, and a black male). These people go through personal journey's in dealing with realtionships within different races.
The book also opened up the minds of those, because i will admit ive said the same things the book has said being a black female .. like omg why do black men get rich and famous and get with a white woman.
This book was really good though it has a lot of drama and action and a lot of things people may deal with when it comes to interacial dating and dealing with family and coworkers and friends. I dont want to say too much because I dont want to ruin the book. It was a really good read with lots of pages for only .99.
So do you Sellout or Stayin.
August 24, 2010
SELLOUT is an intriguing novel that tackles the issues of interracial dating from a fresh, and original point of view. We lucky readers get the juice on this controversial topic from the black man, the black woman, and the white woman's perspectives. Are white women more passive and easier to get in the bed than black women? Are black men who choose to date white women demonstrating self-hate and condemnation for their own race? Do all black women have bad attitudes and bring the drama with neck snaps and eye rolls? Author, James W. Lewis, confronts all of these questions, while dispelling some myths with a healthy dose of humor. With colorful characters (pun intended), thought provoking insight, and an adrenaline pumping climax, this book makes for the perfect book club pick. Are you a "Sellout"? You might want to read this book before answering that question. I applaud the author for penning a well-crafted drama. I look forward to the next hot novel from Lewis.
February 24, 2011
annoyed so far. reviews talked about how the book talks about how people break down barriers regarding interracial dating. all i see so far is ppl breaking down one barrier nd building another. by deciding ur done completely with one race nd deciding to stick with another is ignorant, racist nd close minded.... hoping it gets better....but idk if i wanna finish it all this talk of "brothas, sistas, snow bunnies nd marshmallows" r giving me an headache
done nd not impressed, nothing else to say other than painful to read
done nd not impressed, nothing else to say other than painful to read
November 3, 2011
The book allows the characters to work through a number of the stereotypes that are involved in interracial dating as well as race relations in general. We have black and white characters showing that they believe the stereotypes in their words, but we also have characters acting against what one might expect if one believed the stereotypes.
It is a thought provoking book, I enjoyed it, and it was well worth my time...check it out...
It is a thought provoking book, I enjoyed it, and it was well worth my time...check it out...
October 28, 2010
I enjoyed the characters and felt they were real. Liked they were they grew and changed as story progressed however didnt like the way it ended. The end left me feeling as if there was more to the story. Wonder if there is another story.....
December 31, 2013
A good read
This book crafted an excellent story for the most part although it ended rather abruptly. With believable stories and personalities, this book makes it feel as if you are dealing with friends of your own. Well worth the read
This book crafted an excellent story for the most part although it ended rather abruptly. With believable stories and personalities, this book makes it feel as if you are dealing with friends of your own. Well worth the read
October 27, 2010
Sellout tells the story of three seemingly very different people and their romantic entanglements in and out of their own race. Tammy is an educated and beautiful black woman, unerringly loyal to her man, only to discover that once again, she has been betrayed by his cheating. Furious, she kicks him out of both her apartment and her life, only later realizing just how much he had used her and how much worse it could have been. Having decided that she is done with men for awhile, especially black men, she picks up and moves from her hometown of Dallas, Texas to San Diego, California. Tammy's best friend Sheryl has strong feelings on the subject of interracial dating, hating to see a black man with a white woman. Her own brother Dedrick dates only white women, much to the dismay of his sister. His girlfriend is Penelope, the daughter of an extremely racist father who has passed his feelings on to her older brother. She knew that the men in her family would hate the idea of her romance with a black man, she never dreamed that it would go to the extent that it did. Terrill, Dedrick's best friend, has also sworn off black women, convinced that the drama just isn't worth it anymore. He bounces from one white woman to another, never settling, never finding what he is looking for with any of the women.
Being a 40 year old white woman, I am probably not the demographic for which this book was intended. But I literally could not put this book down. Yes, race and interracial dating were the main themes of this novel, but the themes of love, dissatisfaction, and self-discovery were completely universal. The opening scene in which Tammy discovers that her boyfriend is cheating is a perfect example of this. Black or white, a woman feels the same kind of pain when she discovers that she has been betrayed by the man she thought she loved.
The varying viewpoints of the different characters really made you think outside your own experiences and gave a level of understanding that you might not have had otherwise. At first, being a white woman, the attitudes of Sheryl really bothered me, but as I learned more about her, I began to understand the reasons behind her feelings. And while I may see the race issue differently, I could understand why she felt the way that she did. Tammy's struggles with men, reminded me of my own, even if the circumstances were different. I appreciated the honesty in the telling of her story, of her "relationship" with a white man. Terrill's own journey of self-discovery of his own issues with dating women of his own race was eye-opening as well. It really showed how someone else's viewpoint on your choices can make you think, and make you realize that you could be totally wrong. Penelope's struggle between her love for a black man and her racist upbringing was heartwrenching for me. The narrow-mindedness of her father and brother goes against everything I, as a reader, stand for and that made that part of the story emotional for me.
As I said, I could not put this book down, reading it in less than a day. I loved every part of it and the fact that it really made me think. The characters were real and well-developed, from main characters to the minor. The writing quality was excellent, but entirely real, even raw in places. I would highly recommend this book!
Being a 40 year old white woman, I am probably not the demographic for which this book was intended. But I literally could not put this book down. Yes, race and interracial dating were the main themes of this novel, but the themes of love, dissatisfaction, and self-discovery were completely universal. The opening scene in which Tammy discovers that her boyfriend is cheating is a perfect example of this. Black or white, a woman feels the same kind of pain when she discovers that she has been betrayed by the man she thought she loved.
The varying viewpoints of the different characters really made you think outside your own experiences and gave a level of understanding that you might not have had otherwise. At first, being a white woman, the attitudes of Sheryl really bothered me, but as I learned more about her, I began to understand the reasons behind her feelings. And while I may see the race issue differently, I could understand why she felt the way that she did. Tammy's struggles with men, reminded me of my own, even if the circumstances were different. I appreciated the honesty in the telling of her story, of her "relationship" with a white man. Terrill's own journey of self-discovery of his own issues with dating women of his own race was eye-opening as well. It really showed how someone else's viewpoint on your choices can make you think, and make you realize that you could be totally wrong. Penelope's struggle between her love for a black man and her racist upbringing was heartwrenching for me. The narrow-mindedness of her father and brother goes against everything I, as a reader, stand for and that made that part of the story emotional for me.
As I said, I could not put this book down, reading it in less than a day. I loved every part of it and the fact that it really made me think. The characters were real and well-developed, from main characters to the minor. The writing quality was excellent, but entirely real, even raw in places. I would highly recommend this book!
May 5, 2012
Prejudice is an unfavorable opinion of someone or something formed beforehand without any real reason. A hate crime is motivated by racial, sexual, or other prejudice, and typically involves violence. There are black people who hate white people. There are white people who hate black people. Tempers flare when amidst the abundance of bad opinions and hatred a person of one race dates a person of another race. A person who dares to do such a thing is called a sellout.
“Why does it always have to be about race? Why can't two people just love each other and not get harassed for it?” Sellout, by James W. Lewis, focuses on how irrationally and violently many people react when they see interracial couples.
The story focuses on three very well-developed characters. Terrell is a successful black optometrist who has sworn off black women after a bad experience with a former girlfriend. Penelope is a white woman who grew up in a small hick town. Her redneck father and brother are hardcore racists. Tammy is a successful loan officer who finds out her lazy, unemployed, and good-for-nothing boyfriend really isn't good for anything. Along with all of his other shady activities, she discovers that he is cheating on her.
The first half of the story has unexpected twists and turns. The last half of the story has some pretty major suspense thrown in that will keep you on the edge of your seat and make it hard for you to put the book down.
The part that got to me the most was about the rednecks that showed such hatred for black people. I have known people who act that way. It takes a really sad person to be consumed by so much hate. There is a murder, some pretty serious violence, and there is reconciliation. This is definitely a book worth reading.
This author's style of writing makes it seem as though he is personally telling you the story. Because of some profanity and erotic scenes I would consider this to be an adult novel, but the lessons learned from reading this story are valuable to those of any age.
I was sent a copy of a PDF version of this book free of charge by the author. If you would like a copy of this book to read and enjoy yourself, I have provided an Amazon link below.
“Why does it always have to be about race? Why can't two people just love each other and not get harassed for it?” Sellout, by James W. Lewis, focuses on how irrationally and violently many people react when they see interracial couples.
The story focuses on three very well-developed characters. Terrell is a successful black optometrist who has sworn off black women after a bad experience with a former girlfriend. Penelope is a white woman who grew up in a small hick town. Her redneck father and brother are hardcore racists. Tammy is a successful loan officer who finds out her lazy, unemployed, and good-for-nothing boyfriend really isn't good for anything. Along with all of his other shady activities, she discovers that he is cheating on her.
The first half of the story has unexpected twists and turns. The last half of the story has some pretty major suspense thrown in that will keep you on the edge of your seat and make it hard for you to put the book down.
The part that got to me the most was about the rednecks that showed such hatred for black people. I have known people who act that way. It takes a really sad person to be consumed by so much hate. There is a murder, some pretty serious violence, and there is reconciliation. This is definitely a book worth reading.
This author's style of writing makes it seem as though he is personally telling you the story. Because of some profanity and erotic scenes I would consider this to be an adult novel, but the lessons learned from reading this story are valuable to those of any age.
I was sent a copy of a PDF version of this book free of charge by the author. If you would like a copy of this book to read and enjoy yourself, I have provided an Amazon link below.
November 14, 2011
Ummm! What can I say about this book? But it was the bomb yall!!!
Yes Mr. Lewis bought it with a very interesting concept on inter-racial dating. And why some races Sellout as the saying goes. From the moment I opened this book I was intrigued by the characters and the roles that they played. The first young lady I was introduced to was Tammy, yeah Ms. Tammy had it going on too. Young black college educated women on the right path but keeps choosing the wrong black man. Meet Craig, Tammy's Mr. Wrong he has no job, and no life. All he does is shoot basketball and play video games with his friends while laying up in Tammy's house. That is when he is not cheating on her, it's no wonder after dealing with a loser like him she would want to take a ride on the other side.
But could she really go through with it? Or will the essence of a creamy cocoa colored black man bring her back to reality?
Well you know we also have to get the men perspective so meet Terrell. A young black optometrist, wow you don't see that often. He loves black women but just tired of there drama queen theatrics and there bad attitudes. So having took all that he can take he swears off black woman for good. Yep no more attitude for him but the question remains will he fall for a white women? Or will he realize all woman are the same when it comes to protecting there feelings black or white. Or just maybe might just miss the smell of a black woman.
This book had a lot of very interesting views on why some people choose to date outside of there race and some of those views might just surprise you. And watch out I feel a little controversy on the subject. After reading this book I see why some people Sellout, although I really wont call it selling out unless you are just doing it because you are mad at your race. I prefer to call it being happy and if someone outside of your race can make you happy then go for, I know I would. I would really recommend this book to all my friends and a couple of strangers too, lol. How would I rate this book on a scale of 1-10? I would have to say a 7.. Mr. Lewis you really did your thing.
Yes Mr. Lewis bought it with a very interesting concept on inter-racial dating. And why some races Sellout as the saying goes. From the moment I opened this book I was intrigued by the characters and the roles that they played. The first young lady I was introduced to was Tammy, yeah Ms. Tammy had it going on too. Young black college educated women on the right path but keeps choosing the wrong black man. Meet Craig, Tammy's Mr. Wrong he has no job, and no life. All he does is shoot basketball and play video games with his friends while laying up in Tammy's house. That is when he is not cheating on her, it's no wonder after dealing with a loser like him she would want to take a ride on the other side.
But could she really go through with it? Or will the essence of a creamy cocoa colored black man bring her back to reality?
Well you know we also have to get the men perspective so meet Terrell. A young black optometrist, wow you don't see that often. He loves black women but just tired of there drama queen theatrics and there bad attitudes. So having took all that he can take he swears off black woman for good. Yep no more attitude for him but the question remains will he fall for a white women? Or will he realize all woman are the same when it comes to protecting there feelings black or white. Or just maybe might just miss the smell of a black woman.
This book had a lot of very interesting views on why some people choose to date outside of there race and some of those views might just surprise you. And watch out I feel a little controversy on the subject. After reading this book I see why some people Sellout, although I really wont call it selling out unless you are just doing it because you are mad at your race. I prefer to call it being happy and if someone outside of your race can make you happy then go for, I know I would. I would really recommend this book to all my friends and a couple of strangers too, lol. How would I rate this book on a scale of 1-10? I would have to say a 7.. Mr. Lewis you really did your thing.
April 20, 2012
I am a firm believer that the experiences each of us have as children
help to shape the people that we become as adults. Some of us bear
witness to incidents that cause us to vow to live a completely
different life when we grow up while others may be unaware of how
those incidents affected them and find themselves reliving their
childhood as adults. Many more recognize the patterns yet feel
powerless to do anything about it.
In his debut novel “Sellout” James W. Lewis provides a captivating
exploration of how a group of professional young adults deal with race
and relationships. Each character, like many of us, want to find that
true love that we grew up believing in yet circumstances from their
past and situations in their present seem to be navigating their
future.
Lewis masterfully creates dialogue among the characters that make you
feel as though you are listening in on a group of your friends and
riding the emotional relationship waves with them. Without boring the
reader, Lewis develops the characters with enough background
information to have an understanding of their current attitudes toward
interracial dating.
My favorite character in “Sellout” is Tammy. After being in an
interracial relationship for more than three years, I could relate to
her mixed emotions about dating a white guy. In the beginning of the
relationship, you wonder if you gave up on black men too soon, you
feel a sense of insecurity when you are around other black people
wondering what they think of you but most of all, you wonder if there
is still hope for finding an African-American prince despite all of
the toads that have been thrown in your direction. Tammy wasn’t able to move
past those emotions but she was lucky enough to find a tall, dark and
handsome prince to pursue. In my opinion, she represents a woman who
may be wondering right now – why not date outside of my race?
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to spend a day or two with
some new friends getting the low down on what it’s really like to date
outside of their race.
help to shape the people that we become as adults. Some of us bear
witness to incidents that cause us to vow to live a completely
different life when we grow up while others may be unaware of how
those incidents affected them and find themselves reliving their
childhood as adults. Many more recognize the patterns yet feel
powerless to do anything about it.
In his debut novel “Sellout” James W. Lewis provides a captivating
exploration of how a group of professional young adults deal with race
and relationships. Each character, like many of us, want to find that
true love that we grew up believing in yet circumstances from their
past and situations in their present seem to be navigating their
future.
Lewis masterfully creates dialogue among the characters that make you
feel as though you are listening in on a group of your friends and
riding the emotional relationship waves with them. Without boring the
reader, Lewis develops the characters with enough background
information to have an understanding of their current attitudes toward
interracial dating.
My favorite character in “Sellout” is Tammy. After being in an
interracial relationship for more than three years, I could relate to
her mixed emotions about dating a white guy. In the beginning of the
relationship, you wonder if you gave up on black men too soon, you
feel a sense of insecurity when you are around other black people
wondering what they think of you but most of all, you wonder if there
is still hope for finding an African-American prince despite all of
the toads that have been thrown in your direction. Tammy wasn’t able to move
past those emotions but she was lucky enough to find a tall, dark and
handsome prince to pursue. In my opinion, she represents a woman who
may be wondering right now – why not date outside of my race?
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to spend a day or two with
some new friends getting the low down on what it’s really like to date
outside of their race.
March 24, 2012
There are just too many damn books!!! and I'm just catching up with all of my reviews of so many books. I read JAMES W. LEWIS - SELLOUT - $99 cents - - - This is James’ debut novel about three individuals--a black woman, black man and white woman--facing the consequences of interracial dating.
Quote from James on why he wrote the book, "I've found that people sometimes have strong reasons for dating outside the race, which include negative stereotypes (i.e., black men are players). I once knew a black man who was in the middle of divorcing a black woman and he told me he would never date another black woman again." I thought that was sad and interesting at the same time. In this book, he is exploring the root cause of the characters' racial dating decisions by delving deep into their psyches. What makes a person completely ostracize their own race and "jump the fence?" I’ll tell you why, there just aren’t enough black men to go around. A Sister got to do something and I was just a few pages into the book when white girl meets a black basketball player (he’s not one yet, but close); had sex with him the first night because she just wanted some “blackness.” Her father was one of the original KKK members. Did that catch your interest yet!! I had to finish book this just to see what girl friend "SELLOUT" answers are and what happen to the black guy who gave up on black women. Whoa!!! Momma!!
Oh, I found out, and I sorta knew how the plot would thicken and grow, but James got me in the end. I did not expect that ending and I swear I was watching some realit show on TV. It's good, quick, funny and you will get to the end because you have to. Damn Good book!!!
Quote from James on why he wrote the book, "I've found that people sometimes have strong reasons for dating outside the race, which include negative stereotypes (i.e., black men are players). I once knew a black man who was in the middle of divorcing a black woman and he told me he would never date another black woman again." I thought that was sad and interesting at the same time. In this book, he is exploring the root cause of the characters' racial dating decisions by delving deep into their psyches. What makes a person completely ostracize their own race and "jump the fence?" I’ll tell you why, there just aren’t enough black men to go around. A Sister got to do something and I was just a few pages into the book when white girl meets a black basketball player (he’s not one yet, but close); had sex with him the first night because she just wanted some “blackness.” Her father was one of the original KKK members. Did that catch your interest yet!! I had to finish book this just to see what girl friend "SELLOUT" answers are and what happen to the black guy who gave up on black women. Whoa!!! Momma!!
Oh, I found out, and I sorta knew how the plot would thicken and grow, but James got me in the end. I did not expect that ending and I swear I was watching some realit show on TV. It's good, quick, funny and you will get to the end because you have to. Damn Good book!!!
March 1, 2011
Based on the blurb about this book - I expected to "learn/understand" something about dating outside of one's race, but I was disappointed in this debut novel.
It seemed that the author wanted to accomplish too much with this one book - and would make a stereotype statement and then made the characters fit that statement instead of the reader learning this through the action of the characters.
The transition between the chapters was abrupt at time and as you were settling in on a character and their situation - it switches up
I also thought that the secondary characters could have been more effectively used to enhance the storyline
It seems that all dialogue between the characters related to "race" and/or why dating within/outside ones race - this got really tiring - as we did not really learn anything else about the characters
I also found the story outcome pretty predictable
While this is a topic that is frequently discussed - I thought the author would have best served to present this volume of material in a non-fiction format or to do this as a series of fiction novels where the reader could get to know the characters better and be able to present the issues more deeply than just a "statement."
It seemed that the author wanted to accomplish too much with this one book - and would make a stereotype statement and then made the characters fit that statement instead of the reader learning this through the action of the characters.
The transition between the chapters was abrupt at time and as you were settling in on a character and their situation - it switches up
I also thought that the secondary characters could have been more effectively used to enhance the storyline
It seems that all dialogue between the characters related to "race" and/or why dating within/outside ones race - this got really tiring - as we did not really learn anything else about the characters
I also found the story outcome pretty predictable
While this is a topic that is frequently discussed - I thought the author would have best served to present this volume of material in a non-fiction format or to do this as a series of fiction novels where the reader could get to know the characters better and be able to present the issues more deeply than just a "statement."
October 28, 2010
SELLOUT by James W. Lewis....WOW..what can I say. Once I started this book I did not
want to put it down. The characters in Sellout are discovering the issues that come along with dating
outside of their race. Tammy, Terrell, Penelope and Dedrick each learn the issues that can
come with dating outside of your race.
Some call others sellout, but are you really ? Can one not love another of a different race?
Can one love and deal with the issues that comes with it ? Love has no color, Love don't
come easily. When Love comes I say go for it. Happiness matters more than what others
think of you. This book will really make you think about prejudice. Prejudice comes in all
colors, shapes and sizes.
Sellout takes interracial dating to another level. Readers will not see the twists coming,
the suspense....I was like no..that did not happen. This book had me doing some thinking and
laughing at times.
Sellout is a very entertaining novel and will keep you interested until the end.
The characters were well developed. The writing was excellent
I highly recommend this book to all women and men. Book clubs this will make a great
book discussion.
want to put it down. The characters in Sellout are discovering the issues that come along with dating
outside of their race. Tammy, Terrell, Penelope and Dedrick each learn the issues that can
come with dating outside of your race.
Some call others sellout, but are you really ? Can one not love another of a different race?
Can one love and deal with the issues that comes with it ? Love has no color, Love don't
come easily. When Love comes I say go for it. Happiness matters more than what others
think of you. This book will really make you think about prejudice. Prejudice comes in all
colors, shapes and sizes.
Sellout takes interracial dating to another level. Readers will not see the twists coming,
the suspense....I was like no..that did not happen. This book had me doing some thinking and
laughing at times.
Sellout is a very entertaining novel and will keep you interested until the end.
The characters were well developed. The writing was excellent
I highly recommend this book to all women and men. Book clubs this will make a great
book discussion.
October 27, 2011
In this very well written book we follow five individuals. Terrell, Penelope, Tammy, Sheryl and Dedrick. Each is dealing with bad break-ups and how to move on from those relationships. It's an intense, witty, direct look at interracial relationships and the pain they face from both sides. Every member followed in this book has logical reasons for their choices, but in working through things, they see more clearly what they want in life. I don't want to give too much away, it would spoil this terrific book for you.
This a book that would be great for book clubs and even includes discussion questions in the back. Some of the questions really made me look at myself, my views and the reasons for those views. Mr. Lewis did a very good job of making this an entertaining but thought provoking book.
Having been in interracial relationships myself, I could relate to the book very easily. I've seen what can and does happen. I loved the way this book laid it all bare for everyone to see. Nothing danced around or hidden, it was straight up and direct. I can't find anything I disliked about this book. You HAVE to read this book and I know you'll enjoy it as much as I did.
July 3, 2016
This book deals with three different people trying to figure out dating. Add the interracial part and it gets a bit more complicated. They all intersect a bit with mutual friends, but their stories are told in separate chapters.
The story was a very fast read. I read it in one evening. It certainly isn't a book that I would have chosen to read, but I didn't hate it. I'm still not sure how I feel about it. It didn't really answer any questions or seem to solve anything. It just told the story of interracial dating from each perspective. The writing style was a bit cheesy or overdone in places, but since it was a "fluffy" style it wasn't too hard to read. In all honesty, I'm not sure if this will appeal to a broad audience. But for a few, this book will be a really great read that they can relate to.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
The story was a very fast read. I read it in one evening. It certainly isn't a book that I would have chosen to read, but I didn't hate it. I'm still not sure how I feel about it. It didn't really answer any questions or seem to solve anything. It just told the story of interracial dating from each perspective. The writing style was a bit cheesy or overdone in places, but since it was a "fluffy" style it wasn't too hard to read. In all honesty, I'm not sure if this will appeal to a broad audience. But for a few, this book will be a really great read that they can relate to.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
August 17, 2010
Sellout is an intriguing book that addresses the difficulties of same race relationships as well as inner-racial relationships. The characters are interesting and each has their own views on dating outside of one’s race. Not my typical read but definitely a page turner. The ending was startling and made you realize what hate can do to a person and family. The story line had a nice steady flow to it with lots of supporting information to keep the reader from feeling lost. This book was well written and I would definitely be interested in reading other books written by James Lewis.
June 20, 2011
I didn't love this story, but I didn't hate it either. I could see why Terrell and Tammy felt the way that they did about dating within their race, but it was surely an ironic twist of fate that they were together in the end. I guess what I didn't like about the book was the overabundance of the race issue. The constant use of the N word, racist remarks about Mexicans, and white people as well. I just wish it would have focused more on the relationships, and not just black men serial dating white women. After a while the constant degradation just becoming annoying to me.
August 12, 2016
This is the 1st book I read by James W. Lewis. I loved Tomi he had me laughing throughout the story. I really liked Tammy, Terrell, & Penelope views on interracial dating. Penelope's views touched most because with her upbringing she was still brave enough stand up to her family & stand by her man. I respect all the views in this story but personal I have no problem interracial dating love has no gender or color.
July 17, 2015
Sellout
This book is about dating outside of your race. The reason our black men turn to white women. Dedrick and Terrell are two friends that feel like the the grass is greener on the other side. There Penelope that's falling for a man of color, but her father and brother are red neck country and doesn't approve of blacks at all. One click and read this book. It's definitely something to think about. It's still happening in today's society.
This book is about dating outside of your race. The reason our black men turn to white women. Dedrick and Terrell are two friends that feel like the the grass is greener on the other side. There Penelope that's falling for a man of color, but her father and brother are red neck country and doesn't approve of blacks at all. One click and read this book. It's definitely something to think about. It's still happening in today's society.
February 28, 2012
This was such a great book. I really enjoyed the characters and their perspectives on interracial dating. The interracial couple ended up being my favorite by the end of the book. I hope the author writes a second book.
March 28, 2013
This book was so good. It showed even in this day and age how narrow minded some people can really be whether they are black or white. It was good to see despite people's prejudices and hangups at the end of the day true love conquers all.
May 17, 2011
I thought this was a well put together book. I enjoyed the story line. This book has won several awards. I might be partial to this author since he is my cousin! :-)
July 13, 2011
I really enjoyed Sellout. I hope there is a sequel in the works!
June 10, 2012
Thank god that is over. So. Bad. Ick.
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