Book Review: Black Punk Now

Chris L. Terry and James Spooner, eds., Black Punk Now: Fiction, Nonfiction, and Comics. New York: Soft Skull Press, 2023. ISBN: 9781593767457. 

Genre: punk, Black studies

Subgenre: anthologies

Format: trade paperback

Source: Hutchins Library, Berea College. However, I did have a galley via Edelweiss Plus. Reviewed from the print copy.

This is an anthology volume that looks at Black Punk today, and it is written and compiled by Black punks. The book collects fiction, nonfiction, and comics all looking at and reflecting upon the Black punk experience. The volume celebrates the DIY (do-it-yourself) attitude of Black punks. This is also reflected in the writings and works which range from formal essays to short stories to zines to interviews. There is a good diversity of styles in the book. 

The book is arranged into broad themes, and each theme features a variety of writing and materials. The book is also well illustrated with various forms of art. 

Whether you are just beginning to learn about the Black Punk scene like I am or you're a veteran in the scene, this book has something for you. There is a musicality to it that keeps you reading. The editors do a great job selecting and placing the materials for ease of reading. There is a nice flow as you read. You can, of course, read it cover to cover or pick and choose which pieces you want to read, browse, or skip. 

Public and academic libraries that collect books in Black history, Black studies, music, and pop culture will want to add this book. This is a book that can be moving, insightful, blunt, and education. It is a celebration of Black creativity. 

Overall, I liked it and recommend it. Like many anthologies, some works are more interesting than others, but the balance as a whole offers a good compilation. Some pieces that stood out for me: 

• "The princess and the pit." Fiction, a modern fairy tale. 
• "Let me be misunderstood." Fiction, short film script. 
• "No fun." A short comic with an important message. 

4 out of 5 stars.

 

This book qualifies for the following 2024 Reading Challenges: