The Color Complex: The Politics of Skin Color Among African Americans.

Although the Color Complex: The Politics of Skin Color Among African Americans isn't the most compelling book, it's not a total waste. In looking at the history and myriad expressions of skin-color prejudice, the authors do a decent job of showing us how ridiculous and damaging color consciousness is, and how we really need to get beyond it.

The book's impact on you will hinge on your experience, color consciousness and level of self-esteem. If you've been the victim of color prejudice and are still smarting from the wounds, you may find the book, at points, cathartic. If you've perpetuated color discrimination, you'll feel chastised. And if you have no color complex, you might want to wait for the paperback.