Many thanks to InterVarsity Press for the honor of reviewing this audiobook. I found this book to be a beautiful love letter to Black women speaking to the collective experience of pain and suffering while ushering them toward hope and healing. I love that the author narrates the book. It shows points within the text she desires to emphasize or prompt the listener to reflect. I found her voice to be very soothing which further illuminates the text.

I was initially drawn to Black Woman Grief by its beautiful cover and the compelling concept of exploring grief and healing. Though this book was not specifically written for me, I approached it with the hope of deepening my compassion and understanding.

One of the aspects I appreciated most was the structure that encouraged self-reflection. The check-ins and moments for self-exploration were meaningful and gave me space to process emotions in a thoughtful way. These elements made the book feel interactive and personal, adding depth to the reading experience.

The overall tone of the book was uplifting and hopeful. Ultimately, Black Woman Grief expanded my awareness and sensitivity toward the grief experiences of those in my community. I appreciate the author’s heartfelt guidance and believe this book will be a source of comfort and encouragement to those who connect with its message.

This is extremely Christian focused with multiple Bible quotes used to enhance or explain advice, suggestions, or exercises offered by the author. As a non-Christian, I did not find the focus abrasive. I'd label this as Black Christian and Feminist-light. I found the type of Christianity presented to be kind, loving, and inclusive. If only all Christians practiced this way!

This is timely given our current political climate. I'm sure at least half of all Americans are dealing with grief as we watch our nation being dismantled before our very eyes. Definitely, Black Women are dealing with a disproportionate amount of that shared grief at this time. I hoped this would have healthy suggestions and coping methods. In fact, this offers multiple studied methods for dealing with and managing grief. This also delves into trauma, which was really handled in a delicate and well-balanced manner.

Of course, much of this advice and associated activities involve praying, reading the Bible, and church fellowship. As a non-Christian I still found plenty that was useful for me, and with slight modifications, I created a plan for myself. I meditate instead of praying or light candles on my Ancestor altar. I read history, which allows me to understand what has happened before so I can deal with my present situation with knowledge and forethought. I fellowship with my loved ones who form my community. With a tiny bit of ingenuity, I was able to make this very Christian centered viewpoint work for me as a practicing pagan.

This references well-known psychology texts on grief such as The Grieving Brain by Mary Frances O'Connor and The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, amongst others. The author has done lots of research and offers tried and true methods for managing grief with a focus on the impact on Black Woman.

The author is from a family that sounds a bit like it was steeped in Respeactability Politics, which leaches into the work slightly. I reject the Christian doctrine around 'forgiveness' and found some of the authors' statements on forgiveness to not be in line with my views on forgiveness. Aside from that, this was surprisingly relatable for me. I will be using multiple techniques highlighted in this narrative myself.

This audiobook is read by the author Natasha Smith. It was a treat to have this read by the author herself because hearing the words voiced by the author always helps to understand their frame of mind. The listener hears which word the author, as the narrator, draws out or pauses after. It can illuminate the entire paragraph. The authors voice is smooth, cultured, soft, and firm.

Thank you to Natasha Smith, IVP Audiobooks, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.

This was informative but it’s targeted for a particular demographic group. If this was targeted for Lal woman of different races and backgrounds it would have been much better.

The cover design and title are what caught my eye and I'm so grateful. This book is for everyone who has struggled with grief, and unresolved trauma, and holds a desire to reconnect or maintain a relationship with God.

It offers insight into the black woman's experience that is relatable across the range of skin colors but candidly sheds light on the demographic of women who have been silenced and repressed time and time again. Natasha Smith has such a way with words that only enhanced the message coming out clearer to the reader.

I love when authors narrate their memoir and/or non-fiction. It makes the reading more personal and effective. Natasha's narration felt as if I were sitting on a therapist's couch or in a group therapy session. I especially appreciate her perspective as a Black woman because she understands the additional layers Black women endure in our interactions with colleagues, society and religion.

This book was wonderful at detailing how society, the bible, and science sees grief within Black woman. It definitely feels like a tool and I loved the personal anecdotes. I would recommend to anyone who wants to know about (and possible overcome) different types of grief from Black women.

I will start out by saying I am not the target demographic for this novel by any means. When I saw the cover in NetGalley, I was intrigued and wanted to give it a listen. I am so glad I did, as I found an inspiring and hopeful narrative about what it's like to live as a Black woman grieving in America. This is a quick read but filled with so many thoughtful nuggets about the societal and historical expectations placed on Black women. Despite being outside of the intended audience, I found the story both eye-opening and deeply insightful, with a nuanced portrayal of grief, resilience, and the complexities of identity. I’m grateful for the opportunity to experience it.