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Or, Representation

Reader,

YB and I watch quite a lot of tiny house videos and this week we had quite the conversation about the whiteness of the videos (specifically those profiled by the most popular channels). When one searches for Black people who live in tiny homes, they are there to be found. And yet. And yet. Part of me thinks I should just stop watching them (try that, Michael!) but there’s a not-insignificant part of me that wants to be able to see folks who look like me and (most) of the people I love. As one can imagine, the only mention of race comes from Black people in the community and some of their insights can be illuminating regarding this “idyllic” lifestyle. As a reader, the conversation made me think of the whiteness of Anglo writing (where “diversity” comes from a place of whiteness) and how much work one must do to read outside it; especially in the face of the trauma narratives that are overrepresented in writing by people of colour from the Global North.

I am writing this at the beginning of my leave and being off wage work in the lead-up to my birthday (wishlist here, this is its last mention before the day) has me really excited about all the books I have lined up. When I’m not reading, I’ll be working my way through the French Film Festival (the goal is one feature film and one short a day) so I may just add those updates to the reading ones. Even then:

Scene from "Touki Bouki," directed by Djibil Mambety (1973)

So there’s that (jk).

Some recent and forthcoming events and/ or media:

• Wanjeri’s film club screening on Saturday. I wish I could be there to watch this classic

• This documentary that follows a Kenyan woman who has a Bipolar Mood Disorder diagnosis. I found it both moving and heartbreaking and I’d advise caution going in if talk of mental illness distresses you.

• Office Ladies, a recap podcast that focuses on The Office with a special twist

• The Definitive Unofficial Sauti Sol Quiz Night, hosted by the inimitable Abigail Arunga. Never been to a quiz night at this location and I have… mixed feelings… about the group but I’m always looking to try out new things.

• Tomorrow: Don will be moderating a conversation on Curating Artists' Estates. Register here if you’re keen.

I have not finished any books since I last wrote but I’m happy to say that there’s a new video out. Now to get up to speed on my January reading wrap ups. 

As ever, please write back to me and tell me what books you’re reading or looking forward to reading this week — it’s always a great time talking about books.

Enjoy the rest of the week and have a lovely time reading. Talk to you soon!