A Dazzling Debut
Leila Mottley’s debut novel, Nightcrawling, has taken the literary world by storm, captivating the hearts of readers everywhere. This New York Times bestseller is not just a story; it’s an exploration of a young Black woman’s life as she navigates the streets of Oakland. Mottley’s voice is fresh and original, creating a narrative that resonates deeply. Esteemed authors like Tommy Orange have praised her work, noting that it ‘bursts at the seams of every page and swallows you whole.’
The Journey of Kiara
At the center of Nightcrawling is Kiara, a young woman struggling to survive in a fractured family life where dreams are overshadowed by harsh realities. Living in an East Oakland apartment complex dubbed the Regal-Hi, Kiara and her brother, Marcus, face the challenges of their choices and aspirations. While Marcus clings to the hope of becoming a rap star, Kiara is determined to find work to keep their living situation stable.
Unfolding Tensions
As the plot unfolds, readers witness Kiara’s life take an unexpected turn after a chance encounter leads her into the world of nightcrawling. This new reality forces Kiara to confront systemic issues within the justice system and the Oakland Police Department, where she becomes a key witness in a significant scandal. Mottley’s writing is rich with electric intensity and vulnerability, making Nightcrawling not just a novel, but a compelling reflection of our society.
