Reviews for Candice Carty-Williams’ Queenie highlight its compelling portrayal of a young Black woman navigating life’s challenges. Critics praise its humor, emotional depth, and exploration of mental health and identity. However, some find the protagonist’s decisions frustrating. Overall, it’s lauded for its relatable characters and unapologetic exploration of complex themes.

A reader who would enjoy Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams is someone who appreciates contemporary, character-driven narratives exploring themes of race, identity, and mental health. Fans of Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid will resonate with its introspective and socially relevant storytelling.

Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams follows Queenie Jenkins, a 25-year-old Jamaican-British woman navigating life in London after a traumatic breakup. As she deals with her past traumas, dysfunctional relationships, and career challenges, Queenie embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing, supported by her close friends and the gradual realization of her self-worth. The narrative addresses themes of sexual violence, racism, mental health, and abuse.

Emotional / Challenging / Contemplative / Heartwarming / Bittersweet

- Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams became the first novel by a Black woman to win the British Book Awards' Book of the Year in 2020.
- Before becoming a published author, Candice Carty-Williams worked in marketing and publicity for books, including helping launch the Guardian and 4th Estate BAME Short Story Prize.
- Queenie explores important social themes and has been praised for its candid portrayal of mental health and its exploration of identity and culture within modern Britain.

Candice Carty-Williams

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Queenie and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Queenie Summary and Study Guide

Background

Queenie Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

Queenie Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-11

Queenie Chapters 6-11 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 12-17

Queenie Chapters 12-17 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 18-23

Queenie Chapters 18-23 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 24-30

Queenie Chapters 24-30 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Queenie Character Analysis

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Themes

Queenie Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Queenie Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Queenie Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Queenie Essay Topics

Queenie

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Queenie?

Reading Age

Book Details