Nichelle Gladden

Black as Tar Nichelle Gladden

Black as Tar is the story of a Black girl's struggle with colorism and family trauma. Inspired by true events, it is the story of a young woman's ultimate triumph over issues of colorism, incest, molestation, rape, other physical abuse and neglect. Janelle was born to a mother only 13 1/2 years older than she. "Black as Tar" tells Janelle's journey through drug-infested environments, abuse and subsequent promiscuity. It also demonstrates Janelle's steadfastness in using education to overcome it all! Author Nichelle Gladden vividly describes her protagonist with optimism and hope, despite the destitution and depravity that surrounds the character. Written in the style of her protagonist's voice, Nichelle attacks the story with candor, humor, care, and passion!