The Blacker the Berry the Sweeter the Juice

Cynthia Smitherman’s book, Blacker the Berry the Sweeter the Juice, takes you on her life’s journey where she speaks for her ancestors, who no longer have a voice. She tells a story of tough decisions, be it right or wrong, were made by strong women in her family. She brings to the attention of the reader that barriers, unwarranted or real, are created by people who want to protect their loved ones from a perceived threat. Colorism is not an unfamiliar word, or a new concept, and with determination, perseverance, and self-pride, one can rise above the fray, if not, then be defeated by it. Her book describes those concepts perfectly.

Cynthia Smitherman’s book touches parts of my heart that I was never aware existed. I feel more aware now! The Blacker The Berry, The Sweeter The Juice has changed my perspective on colorism and long held secrets. Surely, it all follows through generations, and we seldom realize the ill-effects. Smitherman’s book has surely been an enlightening read!

This book is so powerful and perfectly timed for so many. I personally relate from my own family history and although at age 81, I have overcome much of the pain and sorrow of my life, it is all still in my memory.

 Cynthia's capture of the many nuances of secrets, lies and outright ignorance is profound. The way she writes brings one into her story in a way that is comforting even if your story is different.

 Truth is light! We all have a story to tell, and I am glad Cynthia put pen to paper in expressing her deep and heartfelt experiences.

Loved this book! It is a potent mixture of historical events, the life experience of the author and a mystery that made it difficult to put down. The hard truths written about inspired me to think, laugh, and cry.

Very easy to read and you will be thinking about it long after you finish it!!!

This was an outstanding story about a family secret revealed, how it changed the author's life and her persistence in solving the mystery of the secret. It's definitely a page turner, full of interesting historical revelations. 

I enjoyed seeing the historical family photos and learning how each family member contributed to the story. It was an excellent book, full of history, emotions, joy, love, truth, mystery, perseverance, triumph and disappointment. I loved it!

This is a must read if you enjoy history, biographies, and truth. 

Cynthia Johnson Smitherman takes you through a journey that reveals what secrets can do to families, and how one strong Black family, especially a loving Mother, helped the family to overcome generations of racism and colorism. 

It will truly make you look more closely at your own family. You will not put it down!

“… I was hesitant to even read it because it immediately made me think of all the family secrets my family and I kept, as I was growing up, and how they have affected us as adults, and passed down to our younger generations. The author kept me engaged from the beginning of the book until the end. She spoke truths that many of us avoid because we are afraid to take the time to face the demons of our past, so we can change the patterns of behaviors that shape our future… Déjà vu.

…I highly recommend this book and thank the author, Cynthia Smitherman, for shedding light on something that impacts the lives of everyone in some way or another.”

Book is well written. Not only did Cynthia share family history, but true American history as well. Great pictures of her ancestors! 

Brenda Jessup Gaines
Cynthia's book, "The Blacker The Berry, The Sweeter The Juice
Uncovers the complexities many families share today when dealing with colorism.

I love how she gives of the history of the family from the 1800's to today and how deeply rooted prejudices shaped her, and her families' lives. 

It is a story of truths that when revealed, can be heartwarming, or can cause pain.  This is a wonderful read.