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From the writer crowned one of the smartest, funniest voices in modern America, this hotly anticipated debut collection of essays offers “a precious glimpse into how Ziwe’s uniquely fearless mind functions” (New York)
Ziwe made a name for herself staring interviewees in the eye and asking, “How many Black friends do you have?” She’s an expert at making people squirm, coming right out and asking the tough questions about race and racism that our culture has made white people experts at dancing around.
In Black Friend, she turns this incisive perspective on the culture at large, with her signature blend of bluntness and warmth that keeps her guests coming back. Throughout the book, Ziwe mixes big-picture concepts like critical race theory and white privilege with pop-culture commentary and her own personal life story. From a cringe-inducing story of mistaken identity via a Jumbotron to an all-too-real fight-or-flight encounter in the woods, Ziwe tackles questions about race head on and in a manner that evokes the way it comes up in the real world—not through deliberate studies of history and theory, which are so important, but in an awkward conversation at a party or a “yikes” comment from a coworker in the break room. The book lives in the moment of discomfort that can be the most truly educational way of unlearning biases. Plus, like everything Ziwe does, it will startle you with how much it makes you laugh.
Ziwe made a name for herself staring interviewees in the eye and asking, “How many Black friends do you have?” She’s an expert at making people squirm, coming right out and asking the tough questions about race and racism that our culture has made white people experts at dancing around.
In Black Friend, she turns this incisive perspective on the culture at large, with her signature blend of bluntness and warmth that keeps her guests coming back. Throughout the book, Ziwe mixes big-picture concepts like critical race theory and white privilege with pop-culture commentary and her own personal life story. From a cringe-inducing story of mistaken identity via a Jumbotron to an all-too-real fight-or-flight encounter in the woods, Ziwe tackles questions about race head on and in a manner that evokes the way it comes up in the real world—not through deliberate studies of history and theory, which are so important, but in an awkward conversation at a party or a “yikes” comment from a coworker in the break room. The book lives in the moment of discomfort that can be the most truly educational way of unlearning biases. Plus, like everything Ziwe does, it will startle you with how much it makes you laugh.
Extent: 192 pp
Format: Paperback
Publication date: 2024-11-07
Size: 20.7 x 13.8 cm
ISBN: 9781419777974
Praise for Black Friend
“One of the smartest, funniest voices in modern America.”
Kirkus Reviews
The intimate selections offer a rare look beneath Ziwe's comedic persona, and the humor amuses . . . energetic mix of comedy and personal reflection.
Publishers Weekly
“It’s got a light touch but sharp nails.”
Bustle
A precious glimpse into how Ziwe's uniquely fearless mind functions.
Vulture, New York Magazine
About the Author
ZIWE is an iconic comedian, writer, and host known for her razor-sharp wit, deadpan delivery, and unparalleled ability to turn awkward social interactions into high art. Best known as the creator, star, and executive producer of her critically acclaimed, eponymous SHOWTIME late-night variety series, ZIWE, she has firmly established herself as a leading voice in modern satire and cultural commentary.
Before disrupting the late-night landscape, Ziwe took the internet by storm with her hit YouTube and Instagram Live show, Baited with Ziwe, pioneering a hilarious, direct, and unapologetic style of interviewing that forced guests to navigate the choppy waters of race, pop culture, and modern tokenism. Her sharp comedic commentary has also been featured on Desus & Mero, Our Cartoon President, and Dickinson, alongside her viral digital music videos that hold up a mirror to contemporary society.
In her debut essay collection, Black Friend: Essays, Ziwe brings her signature, no-holds-barred humor to the page, blending personal memoir with incisive pop culture analysis. A proud graduate of Northwestern University, she continues to write, perform, and challenge social norms from New York City. Find her across social media @ziwe to see what she's asking next.
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