"Everyone seems to have an opinion about American black women--they need to get married, change their hair, act like 'ladies,' and so on. Celebrated writer Tamara Winfrey Harris writes a searing account of being a black woman in America and explains why it's time for black women to speak for themselves"--Provided by publisher.

Introduction: The trouble with black women -- Beauty : pretty for a black girl -- Sex : bump and grind -- Marriage : witches, thornbacks, and sapphires -- Motherhood : between Mammy and a hard place -- Anger : twist and shout -- Strength : precious mettle -- Health : fat, sick, and crazy -- Epilogue: The sisters are alright.