The Mixed-Race Experience: Reflections and Revelations on Multicultural Identity

by Naomi Evans, Natalie Evans

'THOUGHT-PROVOKING' Bernardine Evaristo | 'IMPORTANT' Melissa Hemsley | 'RAZOR-SHARP' Nels Abbey | 'ESSENTIAL' Jaspreet Kaur | 'INSPIRATIONAL' Sophie Williams | 'REVEALING' Tineka Smith | 'NECESSARY' Natalie Alexis LeeWhat does it mean to be mixed race in today's society?In this powerful book, Natalie and Naomi Evans, founders of anti-racist advocacy and platform Everyday Racism, explore the complexities of mixed-race identities - from the discrimination endured by the 1.2 million mixed people in Britain and millions more elsewhere, to the privileges it can afford. Sharing their own personal experiences of growing up in Britain to illuminate the nuances of racial identity, the book also weaves Interviews with people from mixed backgrounds and in mixed relationships- Research to dispel common myths and stereotypes- Practical advice for mixed-race families and friendshipsThe Mixed-Race Experience will help you to recognise and confront the racism within your own family and communities, helping us all to deepen our intersectional awareness and commitment to allyship.

Genres: Nonfiction, Race, Memoir, Audiobook, Politics, Society, Social Justice

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 7, 2022

Reviews

[Nathan Aracena · Rating 2 out of 5]

As mixed race, I’d hoped to resonate with this book far more than I did but it was really just a series of interviews more than anything. It read more like a blog or like multiple instagram posts, which wasn’t surprising based on the authors being instagram based. Would be a good read for any younger people who use social media heavily and who identify as and want to learn more about being mixed race, but wasn’t for me really.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has choked me up. I would like to say thank you to the authors. I loved the woman in the book who said being mixed is a whole thing.. It is so important to hear that being mixed is enough and there's no need to pick a side: something I have struggled with my whole life

[Shanéia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will say, it took me ages to read this. I had to put it down a few times with how heavy some of the topics were. That being said, I felt seen in this book. I've only had my sister to talk to about our experiences, so it was nice to see that our experience isn't individual. I loved how the topics in this were approached. Not only does it help those who are mixed but also those who are family or friends of them. I will definitely be recommending this book to all my family and friends!

[Ciara Hanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t have the words to summarise what this book has done for me…

This is the first time that I have recognised myself within the pages of a book. It has been so validating and comforting to read the words, thoughts and sentiments of people who have been through the same experiences that I have; who look how I look & feel how I feel. I feel so seen and understood having read this. An unfamiliar and emotional experience, one that I am so grateful for.

Non-fiction is not my bag at all but this reads so easily. It felt like listening to a podcast. Definitely a good book for readers who don’t regularly read non-fiction, very easy to digest.

Extremely thought-provoking, has me questioning some of my attitudes (as a mixed-race person) towards my hair, family relationships & behaviour. I’m now having difficult, but very necessary, inquiries into my own unconscious biases regarding race and confronting my internalised racism. I’m now even questioning whether I want to identify as being ‘mixed-race’ due to the problematic association with the idea of ‘different races’ (race is a social concept and I’m still deciding whether I want to contribute to such a potentially dangerous construct).

This felt like the first step in a long journey of anti-racism reading in the quest to understand my identity.

Cannot recommend enough!

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

as a gal with only a couple of mix race friends to relate to, this was so validating and refreshing🥹 And SO many things mentioned that i have experienced but not ever fully given energy to, like neither of your parents being able to relate to your experience and having family members with racist ideals (ok TRAUMA!). the mixed gal identity crisis from being 'too white' in school to going to uni and suddenly being the only black girl, THIS BOOK WAS A HEALING EXPERIENCE❤️

[L · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5

a super informative and accessible read! has definitely given me a lot to think about with my own mixed-race identity but would also highly recommend to all, including those who aren’t mixed-race.

[Ella · Rating 3 out of 5]

i feel like all books you read something should stick with you. whether you resonate with something, learn something, whatever but there wasn’t anything too good in this. i’m glad they included a chapter touching on colourism and light-skin privilege but that should ALWAYS be included in books discussing being mixed raced. so yea, not worth the read but well done woodley library for actually having this book 📚

[Ellie F. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to this as an audiobook. A really interesting and at times challenging book which I really enjoyed. I struggled at the beginning with the pacing/structure.

[Ritu Bhathal · Rating 4 out of 5]

An insightful read into how it really feels to be of mixed-race heritage, and how we can be sensitive to their needs and feelings. BLM brought the long known mistreatment of black people to the forefront of everyone's eyes, but it still didn't highlight the mistreatment and racism that other folk who fall into the BIPOC and Mixed-Race categories. This really looks into personal experiences in a different light.
As the. aunt of two mixed-race nephews, I read this with real interest. Interesting reading that made me think, even more.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Random House, and Vintage for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a parent of mixed race kids in Japan (white British and Japanese) it was interesting to read this book about the experience of being mixed race in the Uk.
There are unique lived experiences based on location and reading this made me think about my white privilege in a majority Japanese environment and how that might shape my kids experience.
Interesting read to continue to educate myself about racism and how to support my kids.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

An important read, an engaging, easy to read, book about the challenges and joys of being mixed race in the UK, especially having been raised in a white majority area. There are various chapters on key topics, including; Identity, micro aggressions, racist family members, interracial relationships, hair. In each chapter the sisters write about their experiences alongside interviews from other mixed race people. The book is informative, interesting, thought provoking and relatable, whether you are mixed race or wish to have more understanding of the mixed race experience, I would recommend this book.

With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[rose edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't expect to relate to this book as much as I did. To read a book with such overlapping struggles and experiences felt extremely validitating. To know that there are so many people who understand in one way or another what it is to be mixed race (and to have that put into a book) is empowering.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and even shed a few tears because it made me feel seen in a way that I haven't ever felt before. The lack of belonging I felt growing up has finally been put into words, not only that but it's the first time I've had something tell me that being mixed race is enough and I don't have to pigeon-hole myself into one category or another.

[Eve Batten · Rating 5 out of 5]

i really really recommend this book to everyone. i listened to this as an audio book and i think it added an extra layer to have it read by the authors.

[Erin Abdulla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never resonated with a book so much! Being mixed race it made me even more prouder of my heritage and I encourage everyone not just people who are ‘mixed race’ to read this book. So happy I came across it, only wish I read sooner! 👏🏽👏🏽

[Roisin]

A mix of autobiography, interviews, short essays and advice about, mainly UK-centric, mixed race experience. A lot of interesting topics discussed from blackfishing and colourism to the history of racial classification and more. I liked the interviews best because they reflect my own experiences growing up black/mixed race in a majority white town.

Although there’s things to reflect on as a mixed race reader like internalised racism and implicit bias, I think I would recommend it more to interracial couples/parents/extended family and white people in general as a learning tool.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoughtful and incisive exploration of mixed-race identity, particularly in the British context. I can see this being particularly valuable to those who identify as mixed race or who are in interracial relationships.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is everything, it’s powerful, emotional, thought provoking and a kind way to explore race with compassion.
I’m Dyslexic so often find it hard to dive in (or keen in) a book, but this book has been a complete game changer for that. It’s easily digestible, powerful chapters have you gripped, and possibly a few teary eyes.
Natalie and Naomi have such a gift for reflecting and reframing a really painful subjects. Their naturally honest and nurturing style, kept me wanting to read more.

One of my favourite parts of the book :

“If this resonates with you, take a deep breath and say to yourself:

“I am not alone”
“There are others out there like me”
“I am enough”
“I have much to offer this world just as I am”
“My experiences are valid”
“No one has the right to erase my identity”
“There is space for me to heal and grow”

P.s also listening to on Audible as it’s lovely to hear the girls read it

[Dannie Lynn Fountain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really well done book that takes a more global and less US centric view of race and mixed race issues. I think it’s a critical read for legitimately everyone. The book had a few editing issues that were distracting, however.

[Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Mixed-Race Experience is an informative book that provides useful insight into what it means to define yourself (or, indeed, be defined by society) as being mixed-race. The authors weave together fact and statistics with interviews with people from a variety of different backgrounds (including their own mother!) in order to paint a vivid picture of what life can be like. The authors are careful not to box anyone in, using the diversity of their interviewees to explain the wide range of experiences that those defining themselves as mixed-race can experience.

I was initially drawn to this book as I am always keen to learn about experiences that are different to my own. However, the book led me to reflect on my own experiences as identifying as mixed-race: my own father is from India but I inherited whiter skin than other family members leading to more privilege than others. As a result I found the book profoundly moving and useful.

I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to reflect on the experiences of people in the UK whose parents come from different backgrounds. Furthermore, I believe this book will be helpful for anyone who defines themselves as mixed-race, whatever their perspective and personal situation.

This is easy to read and easy to engage with. An excellent and important read.

A copy of this book was provided for review by the publisher via NetGalley.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read which focuses on what being mixed-race means. I actually picked this book up because my daughter started school this year and the theme for the Autumn term was about themselves and how everyone is different. She asked a lot of questions and reading The Mixed-Race Experience was a fantastic way to hear about different people's perspectives on the topic and give me some ideas on how to start these conversations with her. I thought the book was really honest, really interesting and really thought-provoking. The combination of personal anecdotes and some history worked well to give a balanced view of the issues surrounding this topic.

[Jen Burrows · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read that really dedicates its focus to the mixed-race experience, or experiences, because as the authors note, there is no one mixed-race reality, but a plurality of lives and stories. The approach is mostly through anecdotes of lived experience, with a little history and theory woven through for context, which feels like the right (and perhaps only) way to take on this topic.

It's a book about learning and acceptance, structured around practical tips for survival and support for living through systemic racism. There is something powerful and validating about the sharing of testimonies, and I loved how the authors let each person they interviewed really speak for themselves.

Highly recommended.

*Thank you to Netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review*

[Jem Q · Rating 4 out of 5]

First time reading a book which reflects my own personal experiences and situation so that in itself was pretty special. Variety of anecdotal accounts shared and key topics covered although at times felt could go a bit deeper but it did cover a lot. The whole notion of feeling that you have to ‘pick a side’ resonated a lot and the book has definitely prompted me to reflect on my own experiences. I’d highly recommend reading and hope it’ll be prompt more books like this.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting and thought provoking book, the first I've ever read that talk about whan being mixed race means.
It made me reflect and think as it's not a question of belonging. The book helped me to understand.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Amanda Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

I came to this book out of curiosity. My own genes originate from three different continents but at a conscious level, I'd say 'race' didn't become a big part of my sense of identity. I didn't grow up in the UK though, and wondered what it was like for 'mixed race' people who lived their whole lives here. I read with great interest, and found myself reflecting on the many interactions throughout my life which were related not just to my 'race' (whatever that is!) but to the fact of my mixed 'racial' origins as perceived by others. The book got me thinking and facing some uncomfortable truths - and any book that can have such an effect is a good book!

Many people who identify as being of multiracial or biracial origins (or whatever language works for them) have found the interviews in this book to resonate with them. But I'd definitely say it's also a useful book for people who aren't 'mixed race' but would like to build their sensitivity to, and understanding of, the mixed race experience in the UK.

Nonetheless, I'd recommend that readers take some of the advice in the book with a pinch of salt. What is a micro-aggression to one person may not be received as such by another etc etc. In our relationships, it's best to get to know how our friends, partners, children or colleagues are thinking and feeling about something - than to trust there's any kind of one-size-fits-all guidance.

[Kristen_102 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was incredibly insightful into experiences of micro-aggressions, dealing with everyday racism, navigating family and other relationships concerning racism and the duality of navigating a plethora of racial and ethnic identities.

If you are looking for a starting point to educate yourself on how PoC sometimes experience racism or a looking to become more aware yourself of how to be respectful towards PoC and more mindful, this would be the perfect book!

I wish I had had this booking growing up in my early childhood years to my late teens, as for me personality, it shed light on many experiences I’d dismissed as simply uncomfortable rather than the significant micro-aggressions and racism it truly was. This book would have offered me so much insight into navigating a mixed-race identity and learning how to accept myself. I could not recommend this book more.

[Matt Aye-Pe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a very easy, informative read, with a great detail of both data and discussion. It’s another book that truly looks into the mixed race experience - what it is to identify, what it is to exist, and what it is to question. The only thing that I struggled with was that because it read almost like a podcast series, I found myself leaving long periods of time before I continued reading.

And that can be a really great thing! In fact, I think it’s a real benefit of the book - it’s so easily segmented and digestible, but I just really love to read a book in one.

Otherwise, it’s a great insight into the lives of other mixed race and dual heritage people and experiences, a great guide especially for those trying to understand our experiences or looking for advice on raising mixed race children.

[Kenneth Koyama · Rating 3 out of 5]

Depending on where you are on your journey of reading about racism and the many forms it takes will dictate your experience of this book. My wife and I are expecting our first child who will be “ mixed race, dual heritage”. So, I thought I would buy this book because I find what they post on Instagram quite useful along this could share some insight into what child may experience growing up.

Unfortunately I didn’t learn much from this book that my wife and I haven’t already considered or spoke about. I think this is due to where we are in our journey and being in a place where we openly talk about racism. I think, if this is your first time beginning to explore this topic you may find it quite useful and eye opening too.

[Riinu Pae · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good introduction to the experiences of mixed race people and racism. Mostly focused on the experiences of being mixed heritage in Britain but the book definitely has a wider relevance.

An easy read with many stories and snippets of information, making it accessible to many. It's not academic by any measure, but has a list of references and further information in the end for further reading. Includes many practical tips, including phrases to use, although a few tips seemed overly simplistic. My book has many post it notes marking interesting or new information that I'll definitely revisit from time to time.

As a white person who hasn't read much about racism, this book has given me many opportunities for reflection and I've learnt a lot. Would recommend!

[Adelka · Rating 3 out of 5]

Engaging and readable, but as a mixed-race person, not particularly revelatory. If you are mixed-race, most of the topics and sentiments raised/explored in this book will already be familiar to you (crises of belonging, being questioned about your origins, struggling with family, etc.) and you won't be likely to come across many new ideas or perspectives. I can see how that might be the point- helping people to feel seen with regard to a topic that they might've previously been unable to properly talk about or even verbalise- but for me personally, I'd have preferred something a little 'deeper'; that said, I can see how it would have value for a younger mixed-race demographic, and also for white people who are curious about the subject.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a terrific look into a UK-based mixed race experience for younger mixed race people or those who want to educate themselves on the issues specifically surrounding the mixed experience.

This was a really hard and yet equally satisfying read. Something cathartic and yet still super educational as well.

I'm really happy that this book is out there in the world and you can hear from not only the authors and their experiences but people from so many difference backgrounds and ethnicities.

If this sounds even remotely needed or generally interesting, I'd recommend picking it up. It's a quick read as well packed with resources too!