Not A Monolith: poems and musings of a black woman

by Shantasha Laing

Not a Monolith- this collection of poems and musings, as its titles suggest, explores the age-old statement "black people are not a monolith"! While this collection is deeply personal, a culturally authentic voice still emerges addressing topics ranging from love, heartbreak, loss, friendship, sisterhood, womanhood, childhood relationships, community, mental health, capitalism, and the patriarchy.



Let these pages take you through a full range of emotions but ultimately leave you seen and beloved. Arranged into four sections Love & love adjacents, The Blues, Community, and Roots. A Black Renaissance arises.

Genres: Poetry

100 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 9, 2024

About the author

Meet Shantasha Naomi Laing, author of Not A Monolith: poems and musings of a black woman, her debut poetry book. Shantasha Naomi Laing was born in Brampton, Canada, but primarily raised in Orlando, FL. The eldest of six children, Shantasha grew up in a Jamaican household surrounded by many matriarchs in her youth. She moved several times during childhood, attending 16 schools K-8th which attributed to her adaptable nature. Shantasha takes pride in being a daughter, granddaughter, niece, friend, confidante, and above all, an eldest sister and bonus mom. Shantasha graduated from the University of Florida, where she obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science while her diploma currently collects dust in the closet at her home in Tampa.

Reviews

[Sabrina Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 gorgeous breathtaking

[Libby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't think I've ever actually written a review before so apologies if I don't do it well. This book was amazing! I just received it in the mail and only meant to give it a quick look for now (I have about ten things I'm supposed to be doing right now) but I just couldn't help myself from finishing it in one go! I've always wanted to enjoy poetry and this is the first time I truly did. I don't want to start rambling so I'll just say some parts made me smile, some were heartbreaking, all of it was beautifully written. I finally have a favorite poet! 💖

[Deirdre Megan Byrd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excepts like a permission slip isn’t needed (definitely not the exact title) and the tough skin captured my heart. I loved this and thought it wasn’t written for white women like me, the beauty in this was incredible. A must read.

[Andrea Tisha · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not My jam but I can appreciate the art.

[kay · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m not a fan of her poetry style but there were some beautiful lines, “you never asked for it but you needed love anyway Awakening a martyr in me- who loved unconditionally.”

[Victoria Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did Not Want This to End

I loved this book of poems. It made me feel seen and understood. I would highly recommend.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

5/5⭐️

Wow just wow this collection of poems truly gave me a lot to think about whether it was things that I've experienced or things that only black girls/women experienced it was truly an eye opener and gave me a lot to learn to self reflect on and to experienced I will definitely be reading more of this authors work

[Andrea Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not a Monolith, a stunning collection of poems by Shantasha Naomi Laing, offers a deeply personal yet universally powerful exploration of identity, race, and resilience. With vivid imagery and an unapologetic voice, Laing invites readers to step into experiences that challenge societal norms while celebrating individuality. These poems go beyond personal storytelling—they compel readers to confront their own biases and reflect on the systemic structures that shape identity and privilege. Raw, reflective, and deeply resonant, Not a Monolith is a must-read for anyone seeking poetry that lingers long after the final page. Laing’s masterful blend of personal narrative and societal insight makes this collection a standout in contemporary poetry.

[Jolie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put it down.

This book of poetry and musings is relatable, enjoyable and laced with personal truths. While I saw myself and others between the lines of her script, there were times when I recognized no one and felt that I was getting to know the unique character and experience of the author. Thus, reinforcing the title’s proclamation that we are “Not A Monolith”. Reading this book was a delightful journey that I intend to venture again.*

[Moth · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25/5 stars

This was a good collection. The poems were short and quick, with universal themes while still covering the author’s experience as a Black woman.

CW: racism; sexual content; mention of hate crimes

[Morgan R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Found this author on Booktok! I really enjoyed seeing the variety of maturity in each of these poems, it was like growing and evolving with her. Excited to see her career grow, will be looking for more collections!

[Ryleigh Dobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never found a poet who writes so similarly to me. I am IN LOVE with their poems and hope they write more in the future! Reading this book as a white female was such a connection experience culturally as well. Highly recommend🫶🏻

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't generally read poetry, but when I heard the author reading one of her poems on TikTok, I decided to give her book a try. These poems are so beautiful and full of life! So relatable!

[Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this collection of poems and musings. They were curious, powerful, and relatable. The beautiful thing about poetry is the emotional tug, and this collection has it.