Manifesto

‘This honest, engaging memoir shares such gems . . . the perfect read for anyone who dreams big’ The Times and Sunday Times, Books of the Year

The powerful, urgent memoir and manifesto on never giving up from Booker prize-winning trailblazer, Bernardine Evaristo

In 2019, Bernardine Evaristo became the first black woman to win the Booker Prize since its inception fifty years earlier – a revolutionary landmark for Britain. Her journey was a long one, but she made it, and she made history.

Manifesto is her intimate and fearless account of how she did it. From a childhood steeped in racism from neighbours, priests and even some white members of her own family, to discovering the arts through her local youth theatre; from stuffing her belongings into bin bags, always on the move between temporary homes, to exploring many romantic partners both toxic and loving, male and female, and eventually finding her soulmate; from setting up Britain’s first theatre company for Black women in the eighties to growing into the trailblazing writer, theatre-maker, teacher, mentor and activist we see today – Bernardine charts her rebellion against the mainstream and her life-long commitment to community and creativity. And, through the prism of her extraordinary experiences, she offers vital insights into the nature of race, class, feminism, sexuality and ageing in modern Britain.

Bernardine Evaristo’s life story is a manifesto for courage, integrity, optimism, resourcefulness and tenacity. It’s a manifesto for anyone who has ever stood on the margins, and anyone who wants to make their mark on history. It’s a manifesto for being unstoppable.

‘Raw and emotive . . . a powerful account of how Evaristo got to the top of her game – it’s moving, but there’s also much humour and joy’ Independent

‘Bernardine Evaristo is one of those writers who should be read by everyone, everywhere’ Elif Shafak

‘Bernardine Evaristo is one of Britain’s best writers, an iconic and unique voice, filled with warmth, subtlety and humanity. Exceptional’ Nikesh Shukla