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jess_mango's review against another edition
5.0
4.5 stars!
When Black Panther hit theaters nationwide, you could tell that something important was happening. The film was the first superhero movie featuring a primarily Black cast. The film resonated with people both Black and non-Black alike. In Why Wakanda Matters, a new essay collection edited by [a:Sheena C. Howard|5931232|Sheena C. Howard|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1586716630p2/5931232.jpg], experts from various fields discuss exactly why Black Panther resonated in our society and WHY it matters. This is a deep dive into the psychology of the impact of the film on pop culture and society in general. The experts analyze the movie including topics such as:
-Black Identity
-Social Learning Theory
-Intergenerational Trauma
-Decolonization of African Narratives
-Cognitive Dissonance
I personally love the movie and have watched it many times with my 2 sons. While we are not Black, my sons are BIPOC (their father, my husband, is Pakistani), so it is important to me that they see representation from non-white folks in media. I really enjoyed this deeper discussion of the movie. The writers obviously put a lot of thought into their topics and have opened my eyes to a few things. I can't wait to watch the movie again with all of this additional perspective.
I listened to the audiobook, which was well-produced. Highly recommend!
Thank you to the publisher for the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
When Black Panther hit theaters nationwide, you could tell that something important was happening. The film was the first superhero movie featuring a primarily Black cast. The film resonated with people both Black and non-Black alike. In Why Wakanda Matters, a new essay collection edited by [a:Sheena C. Howard|5931232|Sheena C. Howard|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1586716630p2/5931232.jpg], experts from various fields discuss exactly why Black Panther resonated in our society and WHY it matters. This is a deep dive into the psychology of the impact of the film on pop culture and society in general. The experts analyze the movie including topics such as:
-Black Identity
-Social Learning Theory
-Intergenerational Trauma
-Decolonization of African Narratives
-Cognitive Dissonance
I personally love the movie and have watched it many times with my 2 sons. While we are not Black, my sons are BIPOC (their father, my husband, is Pakistani), so it is important to me that they see representation from non-white folks in media. I really enjoyed this deeper discussion of the movie. The writers obviously put a lot of thought into their topics and have opened my eyes to a few things. I can't wait to watch the movie again with all of this additional perspective.
I listened to the audiobook, which was well-produced. Highly recommend!
Thank you to the publisher for the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
onepageatatime's review
5.0
I loved this collection of essays that was written by professional psychologists, researchers, etc. This book explored identity, healing. Tne importance of having everyone represented in films, mental health, and healing. I think this book was amazing and a much needed read given the unrest in our society today. Regardless of what side you fall on when it come to politics, you can tell there is definitely a change of awareness and a new sense of identity for those who have long been passed over. There is an outcry for role models and representation for all races and genders and we can thank Black Panther for leading the way. Every child needs someone to look up to and needs role models that look and speak like them.
jeannamarie's review
5.0
“You stand up to the challenges, stay true to your values, and trust the path that God has for you. You do this because what you do today can and will make a difference for those who come after you.”
This book was phenomenal. As a massive Marvel and Black Panther fan, this book hit all the points that make this cultural icon of a movie a success.
My review, my advice is read this book. If some of the themes of the movie resonated with you or you did not fully grasp the depth of their meaning, this collection of essays will help. If you felt the cultural shift within people around you at the time the movie came out and the other social justice movements being highlighted, this will discuss the outside perspective from the marvel cinematic universe (aka the real world).
When Chadwick died last year, I felt like I lost a close friend. Even though I did not know him, his life and death have had profound impacts on my life. This book really honors him, his legacy and the legacy that Black Panther as from Ryan Coogler’s brain has had on the world, both positively and negatively.
———
Throughout the past few years, I’ve always had these words in my head: "Wakanda will no longer watch from the shadows. We cannot. We must not. We will work to be an example of how we as brothers and sisters on this Earth should treat each other. Now, more than ever, the illusions of division threaten our very existence. We all know the truth: more connects us than separates us. But in times of crisis the wise build bridges, while the foolish build barriers. We must find a way to look after one another as if we were one single tribe."
.
Black Panther UN Speech
.
I’ve always wanted to live in a Wakandan/Star Trek world, where humans have empathy and love for each other. All of Chadwick’s work has created meaningful and uncomfortable conversation for lots of people that has moved us closer to a possible reality of those worlds. May this man be forever remembered for being a beautiful human and for his amazing work.
This book was phenomenal. As a massive Marvel and Black Panther fan, this book hit all the points that make this cultural icon of a movie a success.
My review, my advice is read this book. If some of the themes of the movie resonated with you or you did not fully grasp the depth of their meaning, this collection of essays will help. If you felt the cultural shift within people around you at the time the movie came out and the other social justice movements being highlighted, this will discuss the outside perspective from the marvel cinematic universe (aka the real world).
When Chadwick died last year, I felt like I lost a close friend. Even though I did not know him, his life and death have had profound impacts on my life. This book really honors him, his legacy and the legacy that Black Panther as from Ryan Coogler’s brain has had on the world, both positively and negatively.
———
Throughout the past few years, I’ve always had these words in my head: "Wakanda will no longer watch from the shadows. We cannot. We must not. We will work to be an example of how we as brothers and sisters on this Earth should treat each other. Now, more than ever, the illusions of division threaten our very existence. We all know the truth: more connects us than separates us. But in times of crisis the wise build bridges, while the foolish build barriers. We must find a way to look after one another as if we were one single tribe."
.
Black Panther UN Speech
.
I’ve always wanted to live in a Wakandan/Star Trek world, where humans have empathy and love for each other. All of Chadwick’s work has created meaningful and uncomfortable conversation for lots of people that has moved us closer to a possible reality of those worlds. May this man be forever remembered for being a beautiful human and for his amazing work.
annieb123's review
5.0
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Why Wakanda Matters is a collection of essays by several different contributors on the psychology and cultural impact of Black Panther edited by Dr. Sheena C. Howard. Due out 2nd Feb 2021 from BenBella Books, it's 288 pages (print edition) and will be available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats.
I've been a comics/speculative fiction/SF/fantasy nerd my whole life (literally, my dad was also a comics fan, and my grandfather taught himself English by reading comics). I've enjoyed seeing the massive commercial success of many comics franchises in film and television and the serious consideration of comics and graphic novels as valid vehicles for profound and relevant storytelling. That is one reason this collection really appealed to me. These essays are from recognized professionals analyzing the psychology and cultural relevance of Black Panther and how it dovetails with the modern African American diaspora.
The essays are grouped roughly thematically: collective identity and connectedness, racial identity, intergenerational trauma and resistance, and cognition and identification. The essays themselves are written in layman accessible language with an academic slant. I often found myself challenged and moved while reading. It certainly gave me a lot to think about. The chapters are extensively annotated and the referenced materials will give keen readers a lot of directions for further reading.
Five stars, I think this is an *important* and relevant book. This would be a superlative choice for classroom use/lecture/ or support material for race/gender studies, sociology, media, psychology, communication, film/literature, and allied subjects. It would also be a great choice for library acquisition, home library, or gifting. Well written.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Why Wakanda Matters is a collection of essays by several different contributors on the psychology and cultural impact of Black Panther edited by Dr. Sheena C. Howard. Due out 2nd Feb 2021 from BenBella Books, it's 288 pages (print edition) and will be available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats.
I've been a comics/speculative fiction/SF/fantasy nerd my whole life (literally, my dad was also a comics fan, and my grandfather taught himself English by reading comics). I've enjoyed seeing the massive commercial success of many comics franchises in film and television and the serious consideration of comics and graphic novels as valid vehicles for profound and relevant storytelling. That is one reason this collection really appealed to me. These essays are from recognized professionals analyzing the psychology and cultural relevance of Black Panther and how it dovetails with the modern African American diaspora.
The essays are grouped roughly thematically: collective identity and connectedness, racial identity, intergenerational trauma and resistance, and cognition and identification. The essays themselves are written in layman accessible language with an academic slant. I often found myself challenged and moved while reading. It certainly gave me a lot to think about. The chapters are extensively annotated and the referenced materials will give keen readers a lot of directions for further reading.
Five stars, I think this is an *important* and relevant book. This would be a superlative choice for classroom use/lecture/ or support material for race/gender studies, sociology, media, psychology, communication, film/literature, and allied subjects. It would also be a great choice for library acquisition, home library, or gifting. Well written.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
oliviak07's review
4.0
A single epiphany in Phillip Boutte Jr.'s forward, in Howard's "Why Wakanda Matters: What Black Panther Reveals About Psychology, Identity, and Communication", perfectly spoils the reaction most readers will experience throughout and at the conclusion the collection of essays: "I am firmly convinced that people must be able to 'feel' in order to change," (xx) .
One must not, and cannot, be passive while immersed in the topics covered throughout the fourteen chapters. While each of the four parts and their collection of chapters offered to challenge and expand my own environment and perspective, it was parts three (Psychology of Intergenerational Trauma and Resistance) and four (Psychology of Cognition and Identification) that struck my chords as a future educator and growing advocate. Additionally, the brilliance of how the various authors of each part cast light upon the individual (of any gender and background) and how it can compete with/complete the collective cannot and should not be ignored.
I have never taken a psychology course in my long academic career, nor one on identity. However, my experience with the inspiration for and influence of communications and the media has assured me of how powerful it is on those who consume it. While diversity and inclusion are on the rise in media, the journey cannot end here.
There is just too much as stake to become comfortable with the bare minimum when it comes to representation. My hope is that those who come across this book will walk away humbled and brave enough to know where they have erred, and then turn the past into the very fuel that ensures the pride and love of Wakanda is never viewed as purely fictional.
One must not, and cannot, be passive while immersed in the topics covered throughout the fourteen chapters. While each of the four parts and their collection of chapters offered to challenge and expand my own environment and perspective, it was parts three (Psychology of Intergenerational Trauma and Resistance) and four (Psychology of Cognition and Identification) that struck my chords as a future educator and growing advocate. Additionally, the brilliance of how the various authors of each part cast light upon the individual (of any gender and background) and how it can compete with/complete the collective cannot and should not be ignored.
I have never taken a psychology course in my long academic career, nor one on identity. However, my experience with the inspiration for and influence of communications and the media has assured me of how powerful it is on those who consume it. While diversity and inclusion are on the rise in media, the journey cannot end here.
There is just too much as stake to become comfortable with the bare minimum when it comes to representation. My hope is that those who come across this book will walk away humbled and brave enough to know where they have erred, and then turn the past into the very fuel that ensures the pride and love of Wakanda is never viewed as purely fictional.
macfiar's review
5.0
I loved seeing different authors essays on the subject. This is a thought provoking, frustrating and enlightening book. Anyone who cares about the BLM movement should read this.
whatchareadingheather's review
5.0
*listened on audiobook* This book was just so wonderfully done on so many aspects. It had wonderful research and insight. It had great personal stories. It included discussions that were not all praise, which I enjoy because I like to hear from all sides when it comes to sociology, psychology, etc. related topics. I think every single comic book fan should read this book, especially those that don't understand why diversifying the comic book industry is a much-needed step for modern society and future generations.
senevilla's review
5.0
Often repetitive since it’s a collection of essays and each one sets the background info needed, but overall it’s a great analysis of why representation matters and a deep dive into different interpretations of the movie.
jenno's review
I'm going to buy this because I need to read it in print. Listening to it was good but I feel like this should be my coffee table book that I should reread a chapter from now and then.
Even though I'm not American, have children or black. I'm a brown childless Swede that still find more characters to connect with in Black Panther than many other films. And found the discussion in this to be very interesting.
Even though I'm not American, have children or black. I'm a brown childless Swede that still find more characters to connect with in Black Panther than many other films. And found the discussion in this to be very interesting.