Comprehensive Review of Pride by Ibi Zoboi

Literature Reviews - 2025

Comprehensive Review of Pride by Ibi Zoboi

Introduction

Ibi Zoboi’s Pride (2018) is a contemporary reimagining of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, set in the rapidly gentrifying neighborhood of Bushwick, Brooklyn. The novel follows Zuri Benitez, a proud Afro-Latinx teenager who deeply values her family, culture, and community. When the wealthy Darcy family moves into a newly renovated home across the street, Zuri is immediately skeptical, viewing them as symbols of the gentrification threatening her neighborhood. However, as she gets to know Darius Darcy, her initial judgments are challenged, and she begins to navigate a complex relationship shaped by issues of class, identity, and belonging.

Zoboi skillfully blends Austen’s classic themes of pride, prejudice, and social mobility with modern concerns like gentrification, race, and cultural heritage. With poetic prose, vibrant descriptions, and a strong-willed protagonist, Pride offers a fresh and timely update to a beloved literary classic.

Plot Summary

Zuri Benitez, or “ZZ from the Block,” is deeply connected to her Afro-Latinx roots and fiercely protective of her family and neighborhood. She lives in a crowded apartment with her four sisters and hardworking parents, who have built their lives in Bushwick. However, change is coming fast—gentrification is altering the community, and new people with wealth and privilege are moving in.

When the Darcy family—a wealthy Black family—purchases a renovated home across the street, Zuri views them as outsiders who represent the forces pushing longtime residents out. She immediately dislikes Darius Darcy, the younger of the two brothers, believing him to be arrogant and judgmental. Meanwhile, her older sister, Janae, falls for Ainsley Darcy, mirroring the romance of Jane and Bingley in Pride and Prejudice.

As Zuri continues to resist the changes in her neighborhood and her evolving feelings for Darius, she faces challenges of her own: applying to college, dealing with her family’s struggles, and questioning what home truly means. When another boy, Warren (the novel’s version of Wickham), enters the picture, Zuri is drawn to his charm, only to later discover his true nature.

Throughout the novel, Zuri’s journey is one of self-discovery. She ultimately realizes that change is inevitable, and while holding onto one’s roots is important, growth and adaptation are also necessary.

Narrative Style and Writing Techniques

  1. Poetic and Lyrical Prose

Zoboi’s writing is rich, lyrical, and infused with poetry. Zuri is an aspiring poet, and throughout the novel, her poetry provides insight into her emotions and reflections on the world around her. This stylistic choice not only deepens her character but also emphasizes the theme of cultural pride and artistic expression.

  1. First-Person Perspective

The story is told entirely from Zuri’s point of view, allowing readers to experience her strong personality, passionate beliefs, and evolving understanding of people and change. Her voice is vibrant and full of attitude, making her a compelling and relatable protagonist.

  1. Cultural Authenticity and Slang

Zoboi incorporates the language and rhythm of Bushwick, using slang, Spanish phrases, and cultural references to create an authentic and immersive reading experience. While some readers may find this challenging, it adds to the novel’s sense of place and identity.

Themes and Social Commentary

  1. Gentrification and Community Change

One of the most significant themes in Pride is the impact of gentrification on communities of color. Zuri’s resistance to the Darcys stems not just from personal dislike but from her deeper fear that wealthy newcomers will erase the culture and history of Bushwick. Her struggle reflects real-world issues as many urban neighborhoods face displacement due to rising property values and economic inequality.

  1. Class and Social Mobility

Austen’s original novel explored the limitations of class in 19th-century England. Zoboi adapts this theme by highlighting modern disparities between wealthier Black families like the Darcys and working-class families like the Benitezes. Zuri’s skepticism toward Darius is rooted in her belief that people like him look down on families like hers, showcasing how class divisions exist even within communities of color.

  1. Cultural Identity and Pride

Zuri’s deep connection to her Afro-Latinx heritage is central to the novel. From food and music to her poetry and family traditions, she takes immense pride in her roots. However, the novel also challenges her rigid views, showing that cultural identity can be preserved while still embracing change.

  1. Romance and Self-Discovery

Like Pride and Prejudice, Pride is also a love story. Zuri and Darius’ relationship evolves from mutual disdain to understanding, mirroring the arc of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. However, Pride focuses equally on Zuri’s personal growth—her journey is not just about falling in love but about learning to navigate change, ambition, and self-worth.

Character Analysis

  1. Zuri Benitez (Elizabeth Bennet)

Zuri is a strong-willed, opinionated, and fiercely independent protagonist. She is deeply connected to her family and community but sometimes lets her pride and biases cloud her judgment. Over the course of the novel, she learns to challenge her assumptions and embrace personal growth.

  1. Darius Darcy (Mr. Darcy)

Darius starts off as aloof and seemingly judgmental, but as the novel progresses, his character is revealed to be more complex. Unlike his older brother Ainsley, who easily fits into Zuri’s world, Darius struggles with navigating different social spheres. His character development mirrors that of the original Mr. Darcy, showing that first impressions are not always accurate.

  1. Janae Benitez (Jane Bennet) and Ainsley Darcy (Charles Bingley)

Janae and Ainsley’s romance follows a similar path to that of Pride and Prejudice, with Ainsley’s initial withdrawal from the relationship causing heartbreak for Janae. Their storyline reinforces the theme of class and social expectations.

  1. Warren (George Wickham Equivalent)

Warren is charming and smooth-talking, winning over Zuri early on. However, as in Austen’s original, his true character is later revealed, reinforcing the lesson that charm does not always equal good intentions.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

✅ Unique Cultural Perspective: The Afro-Latinx representation and discussion of gentrification add depth to the classic Pride and Prejudice narrative.
✅ Poetic and Engaging Prose: Zoboi’s use of poetry and lyrical writing makes the story immersive.
✅ Strong, Independent Heroine: Zuri is a fierce and relatable protagonist who challenges traditional romance tropes.
✅ Realistic Depiction of Family and Community: The Benitez family dynamic feels authentic and full of warmth.

Weaknesses

⚠️ Fast-Paced Character Development: Some readers feel that Zuri’s transition from dislike to love with Darius happens too quickly.
⚠️ Lack of Deep Exploration of Gentrification: While gentrification is a key theme, some critics feel it is not fully explored beyond Zuri’s perspective.
⚠️ Romance Feels Underdeveloped: The chemistry between Zuri and Darius is not as strong as in the original Pride and Prejudice, leading some readers to find their relationship less compelling.

Critical Reception and Reader Impact

Pride has been widely praised for its fresh take on Pride and Prejudice and its vibrant depiction of Afro-Latinx culture. However, some readers feel that the romance is less compelling than the novel’s broader themes.

  • Positive Reviews:
    • Critics appreciate the novel’s focus on gentrification and cultural pride.
    • Many readers enjoy Zoboi’s poetic writing style and Zuri’s strong voice.
  • Criticism:
    • Some find the romance underdeveloped.
    • The book’s fast pacing leaves some themes less explored than they could be.

Conclusion

Ibi Zoboi’s Pride is a refreshing and socially conscious retelling of Pride and Prejudice. With a fierce heroine, strong cultural themes, and a timely discussion of gentrification, it offers a compelling and unique take on a classic story. While the romance may not be as deeply developed as some readers hope, the novel’s strengths in setting, character, and social commentary make it a must-read for contemporary YA fans.