Real Life by Brandon Taylor

The novel explores the life of Wallace, a Black, gay graduate student navigating the complexities of academia and personal relationships in a predominantly white Midwestern university. Over the course of a weekend, Wallace confronts the emotional and racial tensions that permeate his life, grappling with feelings of isolation, microaggressions, and the pressure to succeed in a hostile environment. As he interacts with friends and colleagues, Wallace reflects on his past traumas and the challenges of finding authenticity and connection in a world that often feels alienating and unforgiving.