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Cool. Awkward. Black. | Stories Edited by Karen Strong
Cool. Awkward. Black. | Stories Edited by Karen Strong
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Cool. Awkward. Black.
Edited by Karen Strong
"Real or imaginary, geekdom is where it's at in this multi-genre YA anthology that celebrates 'the geek'..."
📚 YOUNG ADULT FICTION | ANTHOLOGY | BLACK FICTION & GEEK CULTURE
A life-affirming, dynamic collection of stories celebrating and redefining the many facets of Blackness and geekiness from today's top bestselling authors.
Extended Synopsis
Cool. Awkward. Black. is an expansive and exciting multi-genre YA anthology that shines a spotlight on the self-proclaimed geeks of the world. Featuring an exclusive cast of Black characters, this collection spans a wide array of narratives—from a girl who deeply believes in UFOs, to a boy finally encountering his Prince Charming, a hopeful performer dreaming of a role in The Sound of Music, and a misunderstood magician grappling with unchecked power.
Seamlessly blending contemporary and historical settings with fantasy, sci-fi, and magical realism, these eclectic plotlines capture the true essence of geekdom. Compiled and edited by Karen Strong, this life-affirming anthology redefines the narrative landscape for Black geeks, both in the real world and within brilliantly imagined realms.
About the Editor & Contributors
Karen Strong curates this exceptional anthology, bringing together a powerhouse list of critically acclaimed, bestselling, and award-winning Black authors.
Contributors Include: Amerie, Kalynn Bayron, Terry J. Benton-Walker, Roseanne A. Brown, Elise Bryant, Tracy Deonn, Desiree S. Evans, Isaac Fitzsimons, Lamar Giles, Jordan Ifueko, Leah Johnson, Amanda Joy, Kwame Mbalia, Tochi Onyebuchi, Shari B. Pennant, K. Arsenault Rivera, Julian Winters, and Ibi Zoboi.
Reader Targeting & Academic Utility
- Young Adult Readers: An empowering and highly relatable collection for teens navigating identity, fandom, and personal growth.
- Diverse Literature Scholars: An excellent resource for exploring the intersection of Black identity and multi-genre speculative fiction.
- Sci-Fi & Fantasy Enthusiasts: Offers fresh, imaginative perspectives across a variety of fantastical and realistic settings.
Technical Specifications
| ISBN-13 | 9780593525098 |
| ISBN-10 | 0593525094 |
| Book Binding | Hardcover |
| Publisher | Penguin Young Readers Group |
| Publication Date | January 10, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Subjects | Young Adult Fiction, Short Stories |
Accolades & Features
- Features stories from award-winning and bestselling Black authors.
- Explores diverse genres including sci-fi, historical, contemporary, and magical realism.
- Focuses exclusively on Black characters celebrating geek culture.
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