Not Quite White: A Memoir

Neither here, nor there; neither one, nor the other. What does it feel like to be an indescribable shade somewhere in between? Can you even exist in a binary world that seems so black-and-white? Why is there no easy way to describe someone who is a Welsh-French-Scottish-American-Indian-Mauritian?/

Laila Woozeer, a mixed-race 28-year-old London-born writer and musician, shares a personal story of growing up in a rural white village in North Wales. Laila takes readers on a funny, vivid, and profoundly moving journey of discovering one’s own identity and belonging through her travels between Mauritius, the US, and the UK, to make sense of the world and one’s place within it. /

This is the real-life story of Laila Woozeer trying desperately to understand how to exist, how to survive, and what it might mean to thrive. From childhood memories of self-discovery to an identity crisis of adolescence, to a misunderstood existence in adult life, Not Quite White charts Laila’s struggle to finally find a meaningful place in the world.

Laila Woozeer is a queer nonbinary London-born writer and musician who grew up in rural Wales, fully enchanted by the ancient magic found there. Laila’s work ranges from award-winning soundtracks, off-the-wall theater shows, and original songwriting. A long-term vegan, practicing mixed-religion sorceress, rescue snake owner, and avid arcade gamer, Laila is interested in and available for commissions and commentary on topics including identity, race, colonialism, representation, mental health, sexuality, gender and gender identity, relationships, grief, spirituality, witchcraft, UK history, veganism, animals/animal welfare, travel/tourism, theater/performing arts, entertainment, and pop culture.