Black and White by Dani Shapiro

Published by

Sarah Ann

on

February 11, 2011

Black and White was published in 2007, but it’s timeless. This one is intimate and candid; dark and very real.

The story in Black and White is about Clara, a woman intent on preventing her young daughter Sam from learning the truth about her grandmother, Ruth. Ruth was a famous artist who once exploited Clara, using her naked body in her photography art.

Now, Ruth is suffering on her deathbed, dying from cancer. Clara decides to visit Ruth and face her past, knowing she must eventually tell her daughter the real truth about her family.

Black and White is incredible—it’s only February and this book is already on my “best of” list of books for this year. It’s very moving and will bring you to tears.

I respect Clara’s decision to distance herself from her mom all those years. I think it was certainly the best, healthiest choice. Also, it seems as though the main conflict in this book pertains to Clara, and her struggle with choosing to be honest and upfront with Sam about Ruth.

When Clara finally reunites with Ruth, it’s so jarring and sad, because now, mom and daughter must catch up with each other quickly before Ruth dies.

I also empathized with Clara, when she continually told herself things over the years, like “I never think about my mother” and “All that is behind me now”. It’s apparent Clara is trying desperately hard to move on, but this is proof that family remains close in our hearts despite trying to move on and heal from unhealthy situations.

Clara mentions at one point how motherhood is a secret club she never received the password for. I couldn’t agree more. When you become estranged from family, it’s hard to forget the better times, and the love and trust you once had for them.

I’ve read professional reviews that compare Dani Shapiro with Anita Shreve and Jodi Picoult, but I think Shapiro’s talent is far superior. I wish she’d write more fiction.

Here are my reviews for Family History (2003) and Picturing the Wreck (1995), which were also very good.

Other books by Dani Shapiro include:

What did you think about this book?

Last Updated on January 20, 2026 by Sarah Ann

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