Title
The Skin Between Us: A Memoir of Race, Beauty, and Belonging,New
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Finalist for the HurstonWright Legacy Award for NonfictionA memoir of astonishing delicacy and strength about race and physical beauty.Kym Ragusas stunningly beautiful, brilliant African American mother turned heads as she strolled the streets of West Harlem. Ragusas white, workingclass, Sicilian American father, who grew up only a few streets away in Italian East Harlem, had never seen anything like her. At home, their families despaired at the match, while in the streets the couple faced taunting threats from a city still racially divided.From their volatile, shortlived pairing came a sensitive child with a filmmakers observant eye and the intangible gifts of an exceptional writer. Both Italian American and African American, she struggled to find a place for herself as she grew, and, in this book, she brings to life the two families and the warring, but ultimately similar, communities that defined her.Through the stories and memories of her maternal ancestors, Ragusa explores her black familys history, from her greatgreatgreatgreatgrandmother, who escaped from slavery in the South, to her grandmother, a journalist for the society columns of black newspapers, to her glamorous mother, who became a fashion model in Europe. Entwined with these are the stories of Ragusas paternal ancestors: her ironwilled greatgrandmother, who came to New York from a small village in the mountains of Calabria; her grandmother, the first to be born in America, who struggled to fit in both in her Italian community and later in the American suburbs; and, finally, Ragusas father, a Vietnam veteran.At the center of the memoir are her two powerful grandmothers, who gave her the love and stability to grow into her own skin. Eventually, their shared care for their granddaughter forced them to overcome their prejudices. East and West Harlem, the Bronx and suburban New Jersey, rent parties and religious feste, baked yams and baked zitiall come vividly to life in Ragusas sensuous memories and lyrical prose, as she evokes the joy, the pain, and the inexhaustible richness of a racially and culturally mixed heritage.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the page count of this book? A: The book has two hundred forty pages. This length allows for an in-depth exploration of themes around race and identity.
- Q: What are the dimensions of 'The Skin Between Us'? A: The dimensions are five point eight inches in length, zero point nine one inches in width, and eight point six inches in height. These measurements make it a manageable size for reading.
- Q: What type of binding is used for this memoir? A: This book is bound in hardcover. Hardcover bindings provide durability and a premium feel, making it suitable for display.
- Q: Who is the author of 'The Skin Between Us'? A: The author is Kym Ragusa. She shares her personal narrative focusing on race, beauty, and belonging.
- Q: What genre does this memoir fall into? A: This book is categorized as nonfiction. It recounts personal experiences related to race and identity.
- Q: What themes are explored in 'The Skin Between Us'? A: Major themes include race, beauty, and belonging. The memoir intricately details the author's mixed heritage and family history.
- Q: How can I use this memoir effectively? A: You can read this book for personal growth or educational purposes. Its rich narrative provides insights into cultural identity.
- Q: Is this book suitable for young readers? A: This book is intended for adult audiences. It deals with complex themes that may not be appropriate for younger readers.
- Q: What is the recommended age for readers of this memoir? A: The recommended age for this book is eighteen and older. Its content addresses mature themes surrounding race and personal identity.
- Q: How should I care for this hardcover book? A: Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve its quality and prevent damage.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can gently wipe the cover with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions to prevent damage.
- Q: What if I receive a damaged copy of the book? A: Contact customer support for a return or exchange. They will guide you through the process to resolve any issues.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: Books typically do not come with a warranty. However, you can usually return damaged copies through the retailer's policy.
- Q: How does this memoir compare to other books about race? A: This memoir offers a unique personal perspective on race and identity. Unlike many academic texts, it focuses on the author's lived experiences.
- Q: Is this book a good choice for someone interested in cultural studies? A: Yes, it provides valuable insights into mixed heritage and racial identity. It is particularly beneficial for readers studying social issues.
- Q: What makes 'The Skin Between Us' a compelling read? A: Its rich narrative and emotional depth make it compelling. The author shares her struggles and triumphs, connecting readers to her journey.