David Harewood’s book, Maybe I Don’t Belong: A Memoir of Race, Identity, Breakdown, and Recovery, is a powerful exploration of racism and its effects on individuals. The book is a personal and raw account of Harewood’s experience growing up as a Black man in Britain, and his struggle with mental health issues that stemmed from the racism he faced.

Harewood’s book is particularly useful in understanding racism because it offers a perspective that is often overlooked in mainstream discussions of the topic. Rather than presenting racism as an abstract concept or a political issue, Harewood’s memoir shows how racism is a lived experience that can have profound effects on an individual’s mental health and well-being.

Through his personal story, Harewood illustrates how systemic racism can lead to a sense of alienation, self-doubt, and even trauma. He also offers insights into the ways in which racism can intersect with other forms of marginalization, such as class and gender, to compound the effects of discrimination.

It is a moving and insightful book that offers an important perspective on racism and its effects on individuals. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the experiences of Black people in Britain and the impact of systemic racism on mental health.

Available free from Suffolk Libraries