Chesya Burke - Let's Play White

Let's Play White: A Journey Through the Shadows of Identity

Chesya Burke's Let's Play White is a collection of dark fantasy and horror short stories that delve deep into the complexities of race, identity, and the human experience. The stories are rooted in African and African American history and legend, weaving a tapestry of tales that both fascinate and challenge. The titular story, "Let's Play White," explores the seductive allure of privilege and the harsh realities of racial discrimination. Walter, a young man struggling to find his place in a world that denies him his humanity, grapples with the question of whether playing white, adopting the outward appearance of privilege, would offer him a chance at a better life. This poignant story sets the tone for the collection, which delves into the spectrum of human experience, from despair to hope, from personal struggle to the metaphysical. "What She Saw When They Flew Away" paints a vivid picture of the complex relationship between hope and despair, while "Chocolate Park" unveils the raw truths of individual struggles against societal forces. "I Make People Do Bad Things" offers a chillingly compelling perspective on Harlem's infamous madam, exploring the dark side of human nature. The collection takes an unexpected turn with "Cue: Change", a darkly humorous tale of a zombie apocalypse that prompts a thought-provoking examination of what it truly means to be human. Burke's masterful storytelling weaves together grit and beauty, weaving real-life experiences into unforgettable narratives that explore the full spectrum of human emotions. Let's Play White is a powerful and timely exploration of identity, race, and the complex tapestry of the human experience. Chesya Burke is a talented writer whose work has been featured in publications such as The Rumpus and The New York Times. Her stories have been nominated for numerous awards, including the Bram Stoker Award.