Fierce Angels by Sheri Park
By Angelia Menchan • Mar 29th, 2010 • Category: Book Review 2010 •
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Fierce Angels by Sheri Park reads like a dissertation on how African-American women are viewed in America. From page one I was caught up in how Dr. Parks broke down our images, whether it is the way we are portrayed by the media or within our own communities. Her writing, though very didactic, is still so readable and relatable for any African-American woman who has lived in America. She refers to the black woman’s heritage as The Sacred Dark Feminine and in her words she leaves no stone unturned. There is much mention made of the stereotype of `mammy’ type black woman and also the black woman as being sexually voracious. It is clear that the author conducted many interviews and a great deal of research to bring this book to fruition. I particularly loved how she clearly stated that the `Strong Black Woman’ is idealized and that no human can sustain such a reputation without much cost to her psyche.
My favorite chapter in the book was entitled, “You say `Angry Black Woman’ Like It Is A Bad Thing.” Dr. Parks made clear that women like First Lady Michelle Obama are by no means angry, just honest and normal. However, she breaks down how the sister who drags her `baby-daddy’ to court and who robs `Peter to pay Paul’ is angry and justifiably so. I read that chapter twice.
I recommend Fierce Angels: The Strong Black Woman in American Life and Culture to all African-American women over the age of 16 and the people who love and want to know them better.
This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes.
Angelia Menchan
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Angelia Menchan is wife, mother, mentor and the author of five books, most recently, “Is No Not Clear Enough For You? She is a reviewer for APOOO Exchange Team. Angelia currently works as a Budget Officer, but her most rewarding work experience was as Job Corps Counselor. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her love and reading. Her motto is, “You Get from the Universe, What You Give to the Universe.” She can be contacted at www.angeliavmenchan.com and http://acvermen.blogspot.com
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I hate this myth. It’s as if the black woman is as strong as a “bull.” It’s really another way to support oppression. After all, they’re strong. They can take it. Really want to read this book.