Honest Reflection on "Dear Manny" by Nic Stone
From the moment I cracked open Dear Manny, I felt a magnetic pull towards Nic Stone’s brilliant storytelling. If you’re not already familiar with her work, let me just say: if Nic Stone writes it, I will read it. In this poignant exploration of youth, love, and the heavy burdens of systemic racism, Stone reminds us why her narratives are not only compelling but essential, especially for today’s readers.
At the heart of Dear Manny is Jared, a college student navigating the turbulent waters of his privilege while campaigning for class president on an antiracism platform. His intentions, however, quickly unravel when Dylan, a Black student, enters the picture. What follows is a complex interplay of admiration, misunderstandings, and the painful reality of privilege clashing with lived experience. As Jared becomes enamored with Dylan, her skepticism towards his “woke white boy” persona becomes the backdrop of a powerful narrative about sincerity, guilt, and self-discovery—feelings that many young people resonate with today.
What stands out in Stone’s writing is the epistolary format, where Jared pours out his thoughts in heartfelt letters to his deceased friend, Manny. These letters are not just a narrative device; they serve as a cathartic outlet for Jared to grapple with the grief of losing Manny, who was unjustly killed by an off-duty police officer. Through these reflections, Jared wrestles with his own internalized racism and the larger implications of social injustice, making readers pause and think deeply about their positions in the world.
As I read, I couldn’t help but appreciate Stone’s ability to infuse raw emotion into every page. The pacing felt just right—each letter carefully crafted, allowing time for contemplation on the brutal realities of youth and the complexities of relationships in a college setting. There were moments that struck me profoundly, like when Jared writes about his guilt, saying, “I often wonder if being sorry is enough when it’s not just my friends who are suffering.” It’s a poignant reminder that awareness without action can often feel hollow.
I also have to highlight the audio experience of Dear Manny. Narrated by James Fouhey, the performance brings Jared’s struggles to life in a way that’s immersive and incredibly powerful. If you can, I wholeheartedly recommend indulging in an immersive reading experience, engaging both your eyes and ears for a more deep-seated connection to the characters and their journeys.
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in thoughtful discussions about race, the tumultuous journey of college life, and the importance of diverse narratives. It’s a compelling mirror held up to our society, compelling us to reflect on our roles and responsibilities. If you find value in stories that make you think and challenge the status quo, then Dear Manny deserves a place on your shelf.
In a world that sometimes feels overwhelmingly unjust, Stone’s work offers a beacon of hope and understanding, proving that through personal reflection and courageous conversations, change is possible. I walked away from this book not only enriched but also motivated to engage more deeply in discussions about race and privilege.
Grab a copy, and prepare for an emotional journey that may just change the way you see the world.