We Are Not Like Them

I found this story to be quite powerful and important read. It's a sign of our times. Written in first person perspective from both 'sides', it tells the story of Jen and Riley (white & black) who have been best friends since childhood and how they navigate their relationship following a shooting of an unarmed black teenager. One of the officers involved in the shooting is Jen’s husband and Riley is one of the news reporters covering the shooting. This is all a bit too close to home for the friends, and given many years of skirting around the issue of race (Jen is oblivious to it and Riley endures it) it drives a massive wedge between the pair.
I found their viewpoints interesting - seeing things from their point of view and perspective and totally empathised with each of them.
There is so much to unpack in this book and is definately one for a book club as there are so many discussion points. Racism, white privilege and shooting of unarmed black boys and men to start.

I absolutely loved reading this book. Lots of twists and turns leave you wondering if Jen and Riley's friendship will survive. Such a topical book, which really makes you think about how race affects every element of people's lives. I liked the way the chapters were written in the first person, from either Jen or Riley's perspective. I would definitely recommend this book to others.