The Black Friend: On Being a Better White Person
-
-
5.0 • 1 Rating
-
-
- $15.99
-
- $15.99
Publisher Description
Speaking directly to the reader, Frederick Joseph offers powerful reflections on his own experiences with racism. As a former "token Black kid", he now presents himself as the friend many readers need, touching on topics including cultural appropriation, "reverse racism" and white privilege. Featuring interviews with figures such as writer Angie Thomas, content creator Toni Tone, and April Reign, founder of the #OscarsSoWhite movement, this book serves as conversation starter and tool kit, creating a timely and essential read for committed anti-racists and newcomers to the cause of racial justice alike. "The Black Friend is THE book everyone needs to read right now... Read it, absorb it, and be changed because of it.” —Angie Thomas, author of The Hate U Give
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Gearing this volume toward white people "who want to be better," Joseph offers anecdotes about his experiences with racism and white supremacy including the first time he visited a white friend's house and his first encounter with a security guard at age 11 interlacing them with clear explanations of "the historic and current iniquities and disparities plaguing Black people and people of color as a whole." Supported by an Encyclopedia of Racism at book's end and studded with contextualizing boxes, the text frequently employs humor ("I'm not going to even bother explaining The Fresh Prince") while leading readers through topics such as "This Isn't a Fad; This Is My Culture"; "So Your Relative Is Racist. What Should You Do?"; and "Let's Not Do Oppression Olympics." Interviews with author Angie Thomas, journalist Jemele Hill, and others contribute discussions on the problem with "color blindness" and the importance of personal growth, among various topics. In a genial, assured tone, Joseph invites and encourages readers to reflect on their own behavior, move toward anti-racism, and implement change. Ages 12 up.
