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A review by booksamongstfriends
Colored Television by Danzy Senna
4.0
3.5 rounded up. I’ll start by saying, this book will not be for everyone. For the first time in a while, I picked up a book labeled as “darkly comedic,” and it truly delivered. Satire is notoriously tricky to pull off, as humor varies so widely, and the choice to approach certain topics satirically may not go over well. This book delves into identity, specifically biracial identity, and the complex dynamics of creation, assimilation, and exploitation in the entertainment field. It’s set against the Hollywood backdrop, exploring not just the creative process itself, but the sacrifices and compromises required to create something deemed “entertaining”—and the difficult question of who the intended audience truly is.
The story centers on Jane, an author who’s been struggling for years and finally believes she has something meaningful to share. Alongside her creative pursuits, she grapples with balancing motherhood, partnership, and friendship. By no means is Jane likable—and that’s the point. None of the characters are particularly sympathetic; each has flaws that turn you off. The discomfort is intentional, forcing readers to confront and question their perceptions.
This was a biting commentary on racial identity, questioning an American Dream born in white proximity, and the complicity of some BIPOC individuals in upholding systems of whiteness. It examines the exploitative dynamics of wealth, the white gaze, and the compromises people make to “succeed.” The satire feels bold and intentional, unafraid to make readers uncomfortable. At times, I laughed out loud at the sharp, abrasive humor—moments that feel both shocking and truthful.
Admittedly, the pacing was an issue for me at first. The beginning felt slow, almost like yet another family backstory, but as the narrative progressed, the satirical moments and insights picked up, keeping me engaged. While I initially leaned toward a 3-star rating, the intentionality and humor pushed me to 3.5 stars.
I’ve seen reviews from people disappointed by the pacing or expecting a story that would let them step into someone else’s racial experience. Let me be clear: this is not that book. If you’re looking to learn about other races or identities, pick up nonfiction. Colored Television is 100% satirical fiction, with threads of reality woven in to amplify its message.
This book challenges perceptions, stirs controversy, and confronts its audience. If you’re open to that discomfort, it’s absolutely worth reading—and no surprise that it’s a book club pick. I’ve seen it compared to Yellowface, which makes me even more excited to read that one soon!
The story centers on Jane, an author who’s been struggling for years and finally believes she has something meaningful to share. Alongside her creative pursuits, she grapples with balancing motherhood, partnership, and friendship. By no means is Jane likable—and that’s the point. None of the characters are particularly sympathetic; each has flaws that turn you off. The discomfort is intentional, forcing readers to confront and question their perceptions.
This was a biting commentary on racial identity, questioning an American Dream born in white proximity, and the complicity of some BIPOC individuals in upholding systems of whiteness. It examines the exploitative dynamics of wealth, the white gaze, and the compromises people make to “succeed.” The satire feels bold and intentional, unafraid to make readers uncomfortable. At times, I laughed out loud at the sharp, abrasive humor—moments that feel both shocking and truthful.
Admittedly, the pacing was an issue for me at first. The beginning felt slow, almost like yet another family backstory, but as the narrative progressed, the satirical moments and insights picked up, keeping me engaged. While I initially leaned toward a 3-star rating, the intentionality and humor pushed me to 3.5 stars.
I’ve seen reviews from people disappointed by the pacing or expecting a story that would let them step into someone else’s racial experience. Let me be clear: this is not that book. If you’re looking to learn about other races or identities, pick up nonfiction. Colored Television is 100% satirical fiction, with threads of reality woven in to amplify its message.
This book challenges perceptions, stirs controversy, and confronts its audience. If you’re open to that discomfort, it’s absolutely worth reading—and no surprise that it’s a book club pick. I’ve seen it compared to Yellowface, which makes me even more excited to read that one soon!