Literature Reviews - 2025

Book Review: Genesis Begins Again by Alicia D. Williams

Introduction

Genesis Begins Again is a deeply moving middle-grade novel that explores issues of self-worth, colorism, racism, and family struggles. Published in 2019, Alicia D. Williams’s debut novel tells the story of thirteen-year-old Genesis Anderson, who struggles with self-hatred, internalized racism, and a verbally abusive home environment. Through her journey of self-discovery, Genesis learns to embrace herself despite the prejudices that have shaped her worldview.

This book has been widely praised for its honest portrayal of a young girl grappling with identity, and it has drawn comparisons to Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye, making it an essential read for middle-grade and young adult audiences alike.

Plot Summary

Genesis Anderson has a list of 96 things she hates about herself—and it keeps growing. Most of them revolve around her dark skin, which has been the source of bullying not just from classmates but also from her own family. Her light-skinned mother, colorist grandmother, and abusive, alcoholic father all contribute to her deep insecurity, reinforcing the idea that lighter skin is more desirable.

Compounding her struggles, Genesis’s family faces frequent evictions due to her father’s gambling and drinking problems. When they move to a wealthier suburb, Genesis hopes for a fresh start. She finds comfort in music and the encouragement of her choir teacher, who sees her talent and urges her to perform in the school’s talent show. But how can Genesis believe in herself when she has been conditioned to think she is unworthy? She goes to extreme measures—including attempting to bleach her skin—to conform to a beauty standard that excludes her.

As Genesis’s journey unfolds, she learns the value of self-acceptance, true friendship, and embracing the features that make her who she is.

Strengths of the Novel

1. Honest Exploration of Colorism

One of the novel’s most powerful aspects is its unflinching portrayal of colorism—the prejudice against darker-skinned individuals within the Black community itself. Genesis internalizes the messages she receives from her family and society, believing that her darker complexion makes her less valuable. The book sensitively explores how deep-rooted these biases are, showing how they shape Genesis’s self-perception and interactions with others.

2. Complex and Realistic Characters

Williams excels at crafting multidimensional characters, particularly Genesis. She is not just a victim of her circumstances—she is intelligent, talented, and full of emotional depth. Her struggles with self-worth feel painfully real, making her a deeply relatable protagonist.

Other characters also have rich complexity:

• Genesis’s father is a deeply flawed figure whose drinking and gambling addiction cause instability, yet he is not portrayed as a one-dimensional villain.
• Genesis’s mother is torn between loyalty to her husband and protecting her daughter, highlighting the generational cycle of abuse and colorism.
• Her choir teacher serves as a positive influence, demonstrating how mentorship can transform a child’s self-esteem.

3. A Moving Journey of Self-Acceptance

The novel’s central theme—learning to love oneself—is handled with care and nuance. Genesis's growth is gradual and authentic. She does not experience a sudden transformation but rather a series of small realizations that help her recognize her own worth. The book’s conclusion is hopeful but realistic, emphasizing that self-acceptance is an ongoing process.

4. Tackling Difficult Topics in a Way That is Accessible to Young Readers

Despite its heavy themes, Genesis Begins Again remains accessible to middle-grade readers. Williams balances the difficult subject matter with moments of warmth and humor, particularly in Genesis’s interactions with her friends. The novel also touches on financial instability, family dysfunction, and mental health, providing an important lens for discussions on these topics.

5. Engaging and Emotional Writing Style

Williams’s writing is immersive, bringing Genesis’s world vividly to life. The use of repetition (such as Genesis’s self-hate list) reinforces the intensity of her emotions, and the first-person narration makes her struggles feel intimate and immediate. The story’s pacing keeps readers engaged, ensuring that each development in Genesis’s journey feels impactful.

Criticisms of the Novel

1. Some Dialogue Feels Forced

A few readers noted that certain phrases, like “stinkin’” and “dope,” feel unnatural in the dialogue, as if they were attempts to sound “authentic” to teenagers rather than how kids actually speak. While this does not detract significantly from the story, it can occasionally take readers out of the moment.

2. The Harrowing Skin-Bleaching Scene

While the scene in which Genesis attempts to bleach her skin is a powerful moment, some readers expressed concern that it does not show the physical dangers of such an act. Though the book condemns colorism, a young reader unfamiliar with the risks of skin bleaching might not fully grasp the consequences.

3. Secondary Characters Could Be Further Developed

While Genesis is a fully realized protagonist, some supporting characters—such as her mother and grandmother—could have been explored more deeply. Given the generational aspect of colorism, a more detailed look into their perspectives might have added even greater nuance to the story.

Final Verdict

Genesis Begins Again is a deeply emotional and necessary novel that sheds light on colorism, self-esteem, and the struggles of growing up in a world that reinforces harmful beauty standards. Alicia D. Williams delivers a powerful debut with a protagonist that readers will root for and remember long after finishing the book.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Middle-grade and young adult readers who enjoy emotionally compelling, character-driven stories.
• Readers interested in books that tackle social issues like racism, classism, and mental health.
• Teachers and parents looking for discussion-starting literature about self-acceptance and identity.

Who Might Struggle with This Book?

• Younger readers who may find the themes of self-hatred and family struggles distressing.
• Those who prefer lighter, more plot-driven narratives over introspective stories.

Conclusion

Alicia D. Williams’s Genesis Begins Again is a much-needed addition to middle-grade literature, offering an unfiltered look at colorism, family struggles, and the journey toward self-love. It is a heartbreaking yet hopeful novel that will resonate with readers of all ages, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a story about resilience, identity, and personal growth.