Author(s): Jason Reynolds and Ibram Kendi
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Copyright Year: 2020
ISBN/ISSN: 9780316453691
REVIEWED March 1, 2020
Rating: Highly Recommended
Recommended Grade Levels: 9-12
This book provides an eye-opening look at the historical roots of racism in America. Author Jason Reynolds takes great pains at the very beginning to stress that this is not a history book, or at least not in the traditional sense. Rather, his intent is to provide accessible background information drawn from historical context so that teens can understand how ingrained misconceptions regarding the supposed inferiority of the black race and the alleged superiority of the white race first got started in America, and how these myths were spread by powerful people to support their own ends. Well-known historical luminaries ranging from Aristotle to Angela Davis are discussed within the context of their views on racial inequalities. This sounds like pretty heavy content, and it is, but the text is written in a breezy, engaging style which effectively exposes glaring misapprehensions and torpedoes flawed assertions. Lists and recaps help readers keep track of evolving concepts, and popular culture terms and allusions keep the material relevant and fresh. Back matter includes source notes and suggestions for further reading, which make this a helpful resource for research and inquiry projects. Whether used as curriculum support or as a leisure reading selection, this engaging overview offers readers lots to think about and should spark important conversations about this timely topic.
[
Kathleen M. McBroom, Coordinator, Compensatory Education and School Improvement, Dearborn (Michigan) Public Schools, Wayne State School of Information Sciences, Detroit, MI
Publisher's Product Description
A timely, crucial, and empowering exploration of racism--and antiracism--in America
This is NOT a history book.
This is a book about the here and now.
A book to help us better understand why we are where we are.
A book about race.
The construct of race has always been used to gain and keep power, to create dynamics that separate and silence. This remarkable reimagining of Dr. Ibram X. Kendi's National Book Award-winning Stamped from the Beginning reveals the history of racist ideas in America, and inspires hope for an antiracist future. It takes you on a race journey from then to now, shows you why we feel how we feel, and why the poison of racism lingers. It also proves that while racist ideas have always been easy to fabricate and distribute, they can also be discredited.
Through a gripping, fast-paced, and energizing narrative written by beloved award-winner Jason Reynolds, this book shines a light on the many insidious forms of racist ideas--and on ways readers can identify and stamp out racist thoughts in their daily lives.
This is NOT a history book.
This is a book about the here and now.
A book to help us better understand why we are where we are.
A book about race.
The construct of race has always been used to gain and keep power, to create dynamics that separate and silence. This remarkable reimagining of Dr. Ibram X. Kendi's National Book Award-winning Stamped from the Beginning reveals the history of racist ideas in America, and inspires hope for an antiracist future. It takes you on a race journey from then to now, shows you why we feel how we feel, and why the poison of racism lingers. It also proves that while racist ideas have always been easy to fabricate and distribute, they can also be discredited.
Through a gripping, fast-paced, and energizing narrative written by beloved award-winner Jason Reynolds, this book shines a light on the many insidious forms of racist ideas--and on ways readers can identify and stamp out racist thoughts in their daily lives.
Media Type: Book, eBook
Binding: HC
# Pages: 274
Price: $18.99
Genre: Nonfiction
Sub-Genre: Other