Three Books I Would Recommend to Reesa Teesa
My personal recommendations for the creator of the TikTok viral series "Who TF Did I Marry"
If I could binge read books like I binged the 6 hour, 51- Part Series “Who TF Did I Marry” by Atlanta- based TikToker, Reesa Tessa, I would have more than 5 books read by now— LOL.
Like millions of others, I too was captivated by the story of Reesa Teesa marrying a pathological liar who she calls “Legion.” Beyond entertainment, I felt deep compassion for her as she bravely told her story. She has mentioned that she is still on her journey to heal, and I think these three books can aid her in that journey.
Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Deesha Philyaw
I think a potential underlying cause for Reesa’s marriage to Legion is desire. In her series, Reesa said she finally thought it was “her turn.” This is such a common sentiment among women, but particularly those of who have grown up in the church. What I perceived from Reesa is exactly what these stories represent: “ the raw and tender places where Black women and girls dare to follow their desires and pursue a momentary reprieve from being good.” This one of my all-time favorite books, and I believe Reesa will appreciate how real these fictional stories really are.
Red Lip Theology by Candice Benbow
Something that stood out to me towards the beginning of her story is her admission that she was conflicted about moving Legion in her home because she grew up in the church, and she always said she would never live with a man she wasn’t married to. I couldn’t help but think how much Reesa would have benefited from a big sister to keep it real with her. In Red Lip Theology, Candice authentically talks about some of her shortcomings (including her love life) despite also growing up in the church and how she has evolved, learned and grew from them. I think Reesa will find this book especially affirming and inspiring as she continues to navigate her future. Candice doesn’t come off as preachy or self-righteous, rather it feels like a big hug from an older sister who loves you and wants what is best for you. I personally felt seen, understood and empowered. I know Reesa would feel the same.
Get a Life Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
Transparently, I haven’t personally read this one but it comes highly recommend in the book community. Every girl needs to read a love story every now again to renew her hope in finding the one. Reesa thought she was marrying a highly paid executive in a well-known Atlanta company. There was some negative and frankly mean chatter from viewers of her story that indicated someone like her wouldn’t attract an executive and that she was desperate for love because of her size. This book centers a plus sized, chronically ill black woman as the object of desire. It’s steamy, romantic and funny. StoryGraph mentions it explores themes of self-discovery, empowerment and the transformative power of relationships.
Have you heard about or watched/listened to Reesa Teesa’s 51 part series? What books would you recommend her?
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Loved this recommendation post. Would be so happy to see more like this. Tying book recos to main characters in the social media world is so smart. Have you thought about doing the bean soup fiasco?
Thank you for recommending Church Ladies! ❤️