Review of The Frizz in my hair

[Rajnee Varma]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Frizz in my hair" by Mavis Stewart.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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The Frizz in my hair by Mavis Stewart is a compelling generational novel about a Rhodesian woman and her descendants. Esther lost her mother when she was only four, and her father a few years later. She was sold to a rich White man, Mr. Riley, by her uncle, Rajesh. Riley loved their daughter, Laura, but badly abused Esther. She escaped with Laura and started a new life with Bernard against his mother’s wishes. Bernard died of a snake bite, leaving behind Esther, Laura, and their son, Thoko. Bernard’s father had been the chief of his tribe, and his mother detested Esther for not being royalty. Esther was dragged from her house, badly beaten, and left to die in a distant place. She survived and lived in the hope of being united with her children.

The story begins in the early 1900s with Esther’s parents and continues to the fifth generation in the late 1900s. The main theme of the book is racism and the plight of Black women. But it also features the conflict between tribal traditions and Christianity, poverty, corruption, social and political unrest, dissatisfaction among Black people, and a growing demand for equal rights. The author has successfully illustrated the hatred shown by the White people and how they treated the Colored people with disdain and contempt. They were segregated, forced to live in poor conditions, and not treated like humans. Women were objects of sexual abuse, and even the White women had no sympathy or compassion for them. The dilemma of children born from interracial unions is evident in the characters who are unable to identify with Black people and are not accepted by White people. The pivotal character, Esther, represents a Black woman in general who survives against all odds. She is physically strong, hardworking, loving, and caring and is not ready to be defeated. She does not show leadership qualities but shows perseverance and a will to live. However, her character could have been shown in more depth. Bernard resents the way his father was treated by authorities. He was stripped of his chieftainship and all of his possessions because he wanted fair wages for his people and stood against the authorities. This shows the discrimination and helplessness of his people. Bernard’s mother shows the possessiveness of a mother and her adherence to the tribal traditions and rituals as opposed to Christianity. The story shows gradual changes in the outlook and awareness of the people and the courage to protest the injustice. The editing of the book is remarkably good, and I noticed only one typo.

The book is written in a simple, descriptive style, and the story progresses at a fast pace. There are some gaps in the story, but the storyline is not affected adversely. There is nothing to dislike about the book. The author has successfully portrayed the segregation and racism prevailing in society. There is no reason for a less-than-perfect rating, and I rate the book 5 out of 5 stars.

The most striking theme is the identity crisis of the colored characters due to their mixed heritage. Their eyes, skin, and hair varied in color, and any frizz in their hair identified them as of Black heritage. Readers looking for a highly entertaining story may be disappointed, but it is a meaningful and engaging novel worth reading. It is recommended to people who like straightforward, insightful stories.

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The Frizz in my hair
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[Diane C Johnson]

The Frizz in my hair by Mavis Stewart sounds like a meaningful book which provides insight on the life of a woman who overcomes many obstacles and much adversity but continues to persevere. I like that it follows 5 generations of the same family illustrating how trauma is passed down. It also seems like the author did a good job at highlighting the various injustices suffered due to the racism that is prevalent in society.

[Louis Donald]

The generational aspect and the portrayal of racism and identity struggles really caught my attention. The resilience of Esther and the deep themes about race and social unrest make it sound like a thought-provoking read. I’d be interested in exploring it further.

[Pearl Flourish]

“The Frizz in My Hair” by Mavis Stewart offers a compelling generational narrative that delves into themes of racism, resilience, and identity. The story follows Esther, a Rhodesian woman who, after enduring profound personal tragedies and societal injustices, exemplifies strength and perseverance. The novel spans multiple generations, highlighting the systemic discrimination faced by Black women and the complexities of mixed heritage. Stewart’s descriptive writing and fast-paced storytelling effectively portray the harsh realities of segregation and the indomitable spirit of those who resist oppression. This insightful and engaging novel is recommended for readers interested in exploring the nuanced intersections of race, culture, and personal fortitude.