Fiction Addict

Genre: Chicklit

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Publication Date: March 2005

Reviewed by Kaci Hill

Dreaming in Black and White was the first of four books I was given to read for review.  I’d seen it before—I worked at a bookstore, but my tastes tend to run toward darker suspense so I hadn’t considered trying other genres. That is until the package arrived.

Phoebe, our beloved protagonist, is an absolute riot. At age thirty she’s a witty writer who is searching for Mr. Right and her happy movie ending. Just when she thinks she’s getting her break life happens. Through a series of events, she’s forced to go to the one place she wants to avoid: home.

To add to her humiliation, the jerk who fired her shows up in her hometown and becomes everybody’s favorite person—except Phoebe’s.

If only her life was a movie, where everything is neatly wrapped in a little bow by the end. Then she’d have her dream-guy, a neat little house, and the writing job she’s always wanted. What more could a girl ask?  Instead she gets herself into awkward situations time and again–in front of the one person she wants to make disappear.

Dreaming in Black and White has a light, witty humor I found much needed in my reading life. I had a good time getting to know very loveable characters who know more about classic romance movies than any human being should be allowed.

And under the humor, Walker has woven some very subtle, but powerful, truths about life.  She gets into everything: jobs, family life, social life, the girl/guy relationships, everyday blunders, and a few classic tensions, just for grins.

I just hope you can keep up with the movie buff; she’ll keep you on your toes for certain.  Luckily, ladies and gentlemen, the author has listed many movie facts in the back.

I hate to say too much, or I spoil everything.  If you enjoy laughing, this book is a must-read. And I must say, I’m going to find the sequel.