The Hottest Water in Chicago: Notes of a Native Daughter

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Summary: THIS BOOK IS THE THINKING BLACK WOMAN'S BIBLE!
Review: Gayle Pemberton is, simply, BRILLIANT. This collection of essays from an important intellectual spoke to the core of my triumphant being. I love the angst and the jubilation that peppered her road to self-actualization; I love the matter-of-fact way in which she deals with everyday racism and ignorance; her essay on "triple consciousness" is breathtaking. It is a must read; more than that: it is a must read again, and again, and AGAIN AND AGAIN. . .

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Summary: Wry, witty, subtle, mordant essays
Review: This book is terrific! A moving, funny, insightful, challenging memoir of growing up black, female,and brainy in the 50's, 60's, 70's and beyond. The title essay, in which Pemberton's father integrates a fleabag hotel, is unforgettable. I also loved "Antidisestablishmentarianism," about watching the Mousketeers on TV as a young girl, under the eye of a truly amazing grandmother. Pemberton was included in Philip Lopate's anthology, "The Art of the Personal Essay"-- with good reason. She's outstanding.