We are thrilled to share the highlights from our November book club meeting at Black Women Connect. This month, we dived into the powerful and thought-provoking novel “Nightcrawling” by Leila Mottley. With ten members in attendance, we found the book both interesting and deeply disturbing, igniting a rich discussion on its themes and the young age of its talented author.
Book Summary:
“Nightcrawling” introduces us to Kiara and Marcus, siblings grappling with the hardships of life in the Regal-Hi, an East Oakland apartment complex. Having dropped out of high school and faced with a fractured family scarred by tragedy and incarceration, Kiara and Marcus navigate a harsh reality. While Marcus clings to his dreams of rap stardom, Kiara embarks on a quest for employment to cover their skyrocketing rent. Alongside her own struggles, Kiara also takes on the responsibility of caring for a neglected nine-year-old boy from the neighborhood, ensuring his safety and well-being.
One fateful night, a drunken encounter with a stranger unexpectedly leads Kiara to a job opportunity she never envisioned but now desperately needs: nightcrawling. As Kiara delves into this new world, her life takes an unexpected turn when her name becomes intertwined in an investigation, revealing her as a crucial witness in a massive scandal plaguing the Oakland Police Department.
What We Loved:
Writing Style and Author’s Age: We were in awe of Leila Mottley’s ability to craft such a compelling and mature narrative at a young age. Her lyrical and emotionally charged prose brought Kiara’s world to life, making the story both gripping and heart-wrenching.
Themes of Racism and Culture: The novel’s exploration of systemic racism, poverty, and the exploitation of marginalized communities resonated deeply with us. Mottley’s portrayal of the Oakland Police Department scandal shed light on real issues faced by many, highlighting the vulnerability of Black and Brown women in America.
Character Development: Kiara’s character, with her fierce determination and resilience, stood out as a testament to the strength and survival of marginalized individuals. Her role as a caretaker for her brother and the young boy in her neighborhood added layers to her character, showcasing her compassion amidst her struggles.
Discussion Points:
- Disturbing Topics: The group found the novel’s subject matter—sexual exploitation and police brutality—disturbing yet necessary for the narrative. Mottley’s sensitive handling of these topics allowed for an insightful discussion on their real-world implications.
- Community and Resilience: We talked about how the sense of community in East Oakland, despite its challenges, provided a backdrop for Kiara’s story of survival and hope. Her relationships and the support she received from others highlighted the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity.
Reflections and Takeaways: Our members found “Nightcrawling” to be a deeply affecting read that provided both sorrow and inspiration. The novel’s rich commentary on gender, race, and class defied comfortable assumptions and provoked meaningful conversations about social justice and personal resilience.
Leila Mottley’s debut novel is not just a story but a powerful narrative that brings to light the harsh realities faced by many. If you haven’t read it yet, we highly recommend “Nightcrawling” for its raw beauty and critical insights.
Join us for our next meeting and continue the journey of exploring incredible stories that spark deep conversations and connections.
Happy reading!
