  | Black friend : on being a better white person Author: Joseph, Frederick | |
| Price: $22.58 | ||
Summary:
Writing from the perspective of a friend, the author offers candid reflections on his own experiences with racism and conversations with prominent artists and activists about theirs-creating an essential read for white people who are committed anti-racists and those newly come to the cause of racial justice.
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| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: UG Reading Level: 6.80 Points: 9.0 Quiz: 513557 |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (10/15/20)
School Library Journal (+) (12/01/20)
Booklist (+) (12/01/20)
The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (+) (12/01/20)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 12/01/2020 Gr 7 Up—Joseph contextualizes the legacy of racism and white supremacy through the lens of personal experience. Using humor and a conversational tone, he shares memories from his childhood to demonstrate encounters that were annoying, hateful, and even traumatic. Each story highlights how the words or actions of a white person left a lasting impact. There were kids who thought Joseph only liked rap music, a teacher who believed the only way he could get a high grade was by cheating, and police officers who were quick to assume he was the perpetrator. Interviews with influential Black personalities, who describe their thoughts on what white people should understand about Black people and Black culture, are featured throughout. There is a lot to love about this book, but its greatest strength is its ability to provide readers with the knowledge to recognize and understand the many faces of racism. Joseph delves into topics such as microaggressions, stereotypes, cultural appropriation, and affirmative action. He clearly and decisively breaks down the misconceptions surrounding each. The tone occasionally seeps into disappointed teacher territory and is unlikely to win over new allies but, as the introduction states, this text is for young white people who want to be better. Back matter includes "An Encyclopedia of Racism," a playlist, and recommended reading. VERDICT A helpful, commanding guide for white Americans who are ready to learn how to dismantle the system of racism, specifically anti-Blackness, and how they can change. Recommended for all libraries.—Cathy DeCampli, Haddonfield P.L., NJ - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
Booklist - 12/01/2020 *Starred Review* Typically, books on being an antiracist methodically walk readers through systemic racism and its related terminology, but Joseph takes a more personal, and perhaps more effective, approach, sharing stories from his time in school and college to provide cultural history and opportunities for reflection. In the process, the Black author offers context when explaining white privilege, cultural appropriation, power dynamics, and other important issues. For instance, as he describes hanging out at a white classmate’s house and being asked about basketball and fried chicken, readers begin to see the subtle—and not-so-subtle—ways that white people sustain racism. He then uses these experiences to point out in a frank manner what white people can—or in most cases, what they should NOT—do to avoid racism. His stories also include individuals from other races, ethnicities, and religions, extending his message to end racism against all people of color. To reinforce many of his points, Joseph includes interviews with writers, activists, and other influencers from multiple intersections. Finally, he calls on white people to become active accomplices, rather than passive allies, in the fight. Readers can find more explanations of terms and movements in the concluding “Encyclopedia of Racism,” as well as a “The Black Friend Playlist” and People and Things to Know roster. A hard-hitting resource for action and change. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.
