Review: Everything I Learned About Racism I Learned in School by Tiffany Jewell

Reviewed by Helena M.
Grade 8 

In Everything I Learned about Racism I Learned in School, Tiffany Jewell attempts to expose the horrors of the education system with eye-opening accounts and strong evidence. It is an essential read because of its truthful information that can help young people understand another’s perspective.

Jewell, with the help of many other authors and notable figures, uses her own experiences to construct a powerful array of stories. In some sections, for example, it could be a poem, and in another, it could be Jewell narrating her own experience. The variety of resources presented in the book helps create a vision for the reader and helps them step into another’s shoes.

For the reader to understand what this book is about (it can be a bit confusing to explain), I would like to discuss a chapter of it: “What I Didn’t Learn in History Class.” This chapter is Jewell’s narration, reflecting on her history class. Throughout her years in school, she found a common pattern - purposely skipping important events. In one section, she observes that the history classes often focused on events long ago, not recent ones because they were “too difficult” to talk about. They would often make up excuses like they “didn’t have time” or it “wasn’t in the textbook.” I never really considered this before reading. I realized that, throughout my education, recent events were rarely discussed, like the Hamas and Israeli wars. Instead, we discussed long-ago wars that are not as relevant.

Although there is not much wrong with this book, I found it a bit too informal in some parts. For example, she often says “folks”, which does not, in my opinion, make the writing quality as good as it should be. I had high expectations for this book in writing style and quality, but it did not meet them. However, the main purpose of this book is not to enjoy the writing but to learn about the movement it represents.

I enjoyed Everything I Learned about Racism I Learned in School because of its variety of stories and their impact on readers. It had a friendly manner, which I believe will help contribute to its success come its release in February 2024. It has easy-to-read language in most sections and relatable experiences (like the Hatchet chapter, which is a story that many middle and elementary schools have read). With the relatable experience, it felt easier to comprehend the harder parts of the book. A lot of the sections could be upsetting, but Jewell added anecdotes and jokes to lighten the mood. The most important part of the book, however, is the theme. Jewell’s message is essential to hear, much like her other books. Everything I Learned about Racism I Learned in School is one large call to action.

Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about racism, even though it is aimed at young adults. I truly think that many people would benefit from hearing the other side of the story. I learned from this book that for many issues, not just racism, empathy is essential to solve problems.

Hollow Fires by Samira Ahmed

Reviewed by Nané K.
Grade 10

One day, an English teacher’s Islamophobic judgment sparks a fire that sends 14-year-old Jawad Ali down a road which ends in his kidnapping and murder. At the same time, high schooler Safiya Mirza, who is an aspiring journalist, faces racist and Islamophobic attacks that threaten the school newspaper she works on. 

Hollow Fires by Samira Ahmed is based on the true story of Bobby Franks’ murder in the 1920s. It takes a look into the horrific inner workings of racism, xenophobia, and Islamophobia, using one liners about what is truth and what is fact to set the tone for a chilling page turner. Certain aspects of the true story Hollow Fires is based on are very similar to what happens in the book, but the events have been modernized and changed, adding a new level of insidiousness to a tough story. 

Hollow Fires is non-linear and told in a split perspective between Jawad (as a ghost) and Safiya. It jumps back and forth between Jawad’s reflections after his death, and Safiya investigating his murder. In the beginning, Safiya finds that her school newspaper column was hacked and replaced by alt-right sentiments, which puts the newspaper in jeopardy. As she deals with more discrimination at school, such as anonymous texts and threatening posters put around the school, an Amber Alert about Jawad’s disappearance goes out. As the story progresses, Safiya navigates the increasing threats against her, a budding romance with jock Richard, and uncovering the mystery behind Jawad’s kidnapping, and eventual murder.

The author’s writing is generally solid, with a strong character voice for main character Safiya. However, my immersion was constantly broken by the unrealistic dialogue and interaction between characters, which to me was a big contrast with the dark themes throughout the story. Additionally, I felt that the romance subplot was out of place for most of the book. When it was first introduced, it was a harsh difference from the previous chapters, which had been dark and depressing. It did end up being plot important in a shocking twist--which brings me to my next point. There is a big reveal of the murderer’s identity in the climax. However, by the time the twist comes around, I had already predicted who it would have been a hundred pages ago. It was not a surprising twist, but it was emotionally intense.

One thing this book does well, and what makes it such an engaging read, is the inclusion of different forms of media, from court reports, podcast transcripts, and interviews, to news articles. The journalism theme matched well with the “Fact/Truth/Lie“ one liner at the start of each chapter. The culture of the main character, being an Indian Muslim, made it interesting as well as educational for me, because I had not read a book with a Muslim main character before.

Overall, Hollow Fires is a gripping and compelling story, one in which I was so engrossed that I finished it in a single sitting. I got emotionally invested in the story, and felt sympathetic for Jawad’s unjust fate. I would recommend this book to readers because of its well done story, and to raise awareness about Islamophobia. 

Our take on Printz

 Written by Hope M., Lauren M., and Lisa W.

Each year, the American Library Association "honors the best best book written for teens, based entirely on its literary merit." Sometimes these books really resonate with teen readers (like Looking For Alaska) and other times they are head-scratchers that don't really appeal to your average teen. We take a look at this year's Printz winner and honor books and share our own thoughts on their merits.

2021 Winner
Everything Sad Is Untrue (A True Story) by Daniel Nayeri depicts the life of the author and narrator throughout his childhood. In one book, Nayeri weaves together a tale of facts and feelings, struggles and strength, fiction and nonfiction, and so much wisdom. While reading, I felt like the author was speaking directly to me. Furthermore, his personal questions and thoughts caused me to reflect in ways I haven't before. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the novel. On a grading scale of A-F, Everything Sad Is Untrue (A True Story) gets an A+ from me!

-Hope

2021 Honor Books

Apple (Skin To The Core) by Eric Gansworth is a memoir depicting the author's life growing up in the Onodaga Tribe in America. Written in verse, Gansworth uses his experiences (and a few Beatles references) to empower Native Americans and help them embrace their identities. Honestly this book was slightly confusing, especially at the beginning; I've read many books written in verse before, however the format of each line had me wondering whether I was reading the book itself or a strange (and long) prologue. Nevertheless, I do feel as if the book allowed me to fully comprehend the horrors that most Native Americans had to endure. If I were to grade Gansworth's work, I would give it a B.

- Lisa

In Dragon Hoops, Gene Luen Yang's newest graphic novel, we dive deep into Bishop O'Dowd High School's basketball team as they make their way through the 2014-15 season with hopes of finally winning the State Championships. Striking and thought-provoking, Dragon Hoops introduces readers to the members of the team and explores the principles and mannerisms that make a winning team that go far deeper than drills and practice--principles the apply to every area of life. An A on the grading scale of A-F, Yang's latest will have readers cheering the Dragons on throughout. 

-Lauren

Every Body Looking by Candace Iloh portrays the life of Ada, a young woman who struggles to find her identity and take control of her own destiny. The novel goes back and forth between her present and her past, illustrating the difficult circumstances Ada has experienced from her childhood up to her life at college.Many mature themes are presented in the story, and the author's unique writing style allowed me to empathize with the character's trials. Despite this, I didn't really enjoy it. For this reason, I would give this book a D.

-Hope

We Are Not Free by Traci Chee World War II is a subject that is approached frequently by authors, however Traci Chee finds an innovative and enlightening way to utilize that topic to introduce another part of history that is, sadly, not as well known. We Are Not Free is a passionate and heart-wrenching story about 14 Japanese-American teenagers whose lives are uprooted when they are placed in incarceration camps during World War II. I recommend this book, not because it was an enjoyable read, but because the abuse and racism that Japanese-Americans had to face should not be an obscure part of history. The only negative comment that I have for We Are Not Free is that 14 different points-of-view are a bit difficult to tolerate, seeing as every time the reader begins to sympathize with the character, the POV is switched to someone else’s. Ergo, I wasn’t able to connect to any of them. I would give this book an A-.

-Lisa

Graphic novel series featuring young authors and their true stories

Written by Kaitlyn K., Lisa W. and Taylor K.

Through the graphic novel medium, Zuiker Press has been able to both convey the stories of real people as well as help young readers understand and relate to the situations described. This graphic novel series, which currently contains nine stories, explores a variety of topics, some of which include racism, suicide, bullying, and divorce. One graphic novel, titled Activist, describes the story of a student during the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting. This does not only especially impact young readers in Florida but also shows how Zuiker Press has committed itself to help readers “cope with the challenges they face today” (Zuiker Press). While reading is a powerful tool on its own, these graphic novels will strengthen this power. By giving young readers the ability to explore various emotional and social issues, this series acts as a guarantee that they are not alone and empower them. 

Here's a closer look at some of the titles:

Activist tells the story of a survivor of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Shooting in Parkland, Florida. Lauren lost two very close friends that day, and 15 other students lost their lives. Instead of choosing to let her grief overwhelm her, Lauren became an activist and was determined to march for the right for every kid to be safe in their school. 

Brother tells the story of Bridget Hudgens and her brother Carlton, who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at an early age. As she grows up, Bridget realizes that, even though she acts as Carlton’s protector, there are other people in his life who can guide and aid him. Through the ups and downs of life, Brother demonstrates that even though someone has special needs, they still have the ability to live and learn, and don’t always need a “protector”. 

The story of Click begins with Lexi leading a normal teenage life, participating on sports teams and hanging out with her friends. However after a misinterpretation, Lexi becomes the target of cyberbullying at the hands of her peers. While it does depict a specific story of cyberbullying, the emotions Lexi experiences are universal to those who have faced bullying of any kind. By showing how one can rise up against their bullies, Click leaves readers feeling empowered.

Goodbye is the story of Hailee, told through her parents. Two days after her 13th Birthday, she committed suicide. Hailee's parents decided to tell her story in the hopes that they can reach other people in time, and the result is a book that highlights the struggles of a mourning family.

Identity is the story of Corey, a transgender girl. Corey, with unconditional support from her mother, moves from school to school in the hopes that she might fit in somewhere. Along the way she has to deal with bullies and other obstacles, but later in life she joins pride parades and becomes a beacon of hope for other transitioning teens. 

Imperfect portrays the struggles that come with Body Dysmorphic Disorder through the voice of Dounya Awada. Transfixed by her body image, Dounya finds herself at a point of self-destruction, by starving herself and purging. This graphic novel is an ideal way to bring awareness to Body Dysmorphic Disorder and portray the horrors faced by many teens in this day and age. 

Mend depicts the story of nine year-old Sophia as she navigates through her new life following her parent’s unexpected divorce. Focusing on a topic familiar to many readers, Mend provides hope to those who have experienced divorce by helping them understand what it is they may be feeling. 

Black History Month Recommended Reads

In honor of Black History Month, the Winter Park Library's Teen Book Guild read multiple novels written by black authors. The books presented on the list below offer valuable insight into African American lives, demonstrate remarkable character development, and teach important lessons throughout each story. From classics set in the 1800s to novels established in present day, these books will not only be enjoyable reads, but they will also help individuals develop a better understanding of a very significant culture.

Anna recommends Inventing Victoria

Tonya Bolden’s Inventing Victoria took me on an emotional roller coaster ride. It showed the hardship of growing up in difficult circumstances and the beauty of rising above and overcoming it. If you want a great African American History Month read, then I totally recommend this book.

Hope recommends Their Eyes Were Watching God

In Their Eyes Were Watching God, Zora Neale Hurston clearly depicts the fictional story of Janie Crawford, a black woman determined to live her own life in a world where she is largely controlled by others. Published in 1937, this narrative follows Janie through three marriages and much tribulation. Through it all, Janie discovers there are “two things everybody’s got tuh do fuh theyselves. They got tuh go tuh God, and they got tuh find out about livin’ fuh theyselves” (p 192). Despite being a fictional novel, Hurston brings much of the early twentieth-century African American culture to life in this entertaining read.

Lauren recommends Flygirl

Flygirl is an inspiring piece of fiction and a memorial to the bravery of African American women during World War II. Throughout the book, Sherri L. Smith fleshed out her characters with skill and empathy and enabled the reader to connect with the characters and various situations that arose. Smith’s wartime novel will keep readers guessing all the way through, as bravery and loyalties are tested and forged.

Maansi recommends Dear Justyce

In Dear Justyce, author Nic Stone explores the thoughts and situations of an innocent, black young man dealing with being in prison. It gives readers insight into something that they might not really understand or want to learn more about. Nic Stone does an amazing job showing the discrimination and injustice that is faced every day. 

Dear Justyce by Nic Stone

Reviewed by Maansi C.
Grade 11

In the book Dear Justyce by Nic Stone, the author explores the thoughts and situations of an innocent, black young man dealing with being in prison.

Dear Justyce explains the thoughts and situations of a character named Vernell LaQuan Banks aka Quan serving time for something he didn’t do. He writes letters to his friend Justyce McAllister, who is the main character in Dear Martin, about his life in prison. Aside from the letters, each chapter also has snapshots that show instances that affect Quan's life. Some are in the present and others are situations that led to Quan being in prison. Through all the information that is learned through the snapshots and letters in the chapters, Justyce is able to try and figure out a way to help Quan out with the situation that he is in.

Author Nic Stone uses different media when writing the book. The letters give you insight as to how Quan is feeling when he is in prison and trying to talk to the outside. It makes you sympathize with him because of the emotion you feel when you read them, but that is not always shown in what he writes in the letter. The snapshots bring another element to the book. It shows the different situations that the author believes are important to the premise of the book. You can see the different situations that lead to Quan being wrongly accused and also what is happening to help him in the present. Nic Stone always comes up with interesting ways to portray her stories across and this is a great example.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested. It gives you insight into something that you might not really understand or want to learn more about. Nic Stone does an amazing job showing the discrimination and injustice that is faced every day. 

Flygirl by Sherri L. Smith

Reviewed by Lauren M.
Grade 11

What lengths would you go to in order to achieve your dream? This is the central question of Sherri L. Smith’s novel, Flygirl, which takes place in the early 1940s. In a land plagued by Jim Crow laws, one courageous girl takes to the skies against all odds.

A bright, eighteen-year-old named Ida Mae Jones is working as a housemaid and saving money for flight lessons in Chicago. Because of her light-skin, she has been afforded with alternatives to being colored, known as “passing”, even though it goes against her morals. When she hears about the WASP program, she seizes the opportunity to become a pilot for the Army and begins passing to make her dream happen. However, she encounters more problems than she planned for, including discrimination against women. Now she is forced to make a choice: will she turn against her own people and self in order to not get caught? Or will she be true to herself, no matter what?

I found the struggle in this book to be compelling. I was able to identify with the character and the struggles she went through as she battled with herself, asking where the line is drawn between right and wrong. However, I found the author’s style to be a bit light-hearted, and she skipped around the weightier matters that would have given the characters in the book more depth. Ida Mae is kind and honest, and she bonds quickly with people, but because the narration mostly told instead of showed, I was not able to properly understand and get to know the side characters other than on a superficial level. For example, the reader never really sees Walter Jenkins, but he is an important fixture in the book. In addition, the plot has promise but likewise was not as developed as I thought it would be. Although she comes into conflict because of her skin tone, Ida is generally focused on the war, as others around her are. There is a little conflict about women’s rights, but that too went mostly unexplored, which is a shame because it would have added a bit more nuance to the book. 

Overall I would rate this book a 4 out of 5 stars. Despite limited character development and conflict, the plot has promise and the conflict is powerful. Ida Mae really grows and comes into her own, and I loved how she stayed true to her values. Because of this I would recommend this book to others and I sincerely hope they enjoy it. 

Watch Us Rise by Renee Watson & Ellen Hagan

Reviewed by Annabelle L.
Grade 12

Watch Us Rise by Renee Watson and Ellen Hagan is a book that follows four teenage activists in high school and the struggles they face based on their gender, race, and appearance. The chapters are divided by month and perspective. The story switches between two of the main characters: Jasmine and Chelsea.

Jasmine is a fat, black young woman who enjoys theater. Chelsea is an insecure, white young woman who loves to write. They are both very outspoken and attend a school well-known for its progressiveness with their other two friends: Nadine and Isaac. Despite how progressive the school advertises itself to be, it is not without the everyday prejudices against those who do not fit societal expectations. These four, in trying to promote activism and speaking out through their school club, end up in hot water with the administration. Of course, they fight back.

The book is beautifully written, showcasing fantastic poetry from the characters that develop them and the story more. It touches on subjects that most coming of age and activist YA novels skim over. Examples of this include the effect of the beauty industry on women and men, the controversial topic of Henrietta Lacks, and the pigeonhole of POC-related roles and stereotypes in media. 

They do fall into the common pitfall of feminism: male equality. A few examples of this include one of the main characters using the word "womanist" instead of feminist (which toes the line of misandry) and Isaac being called weak for not doing something he is uncomfortable with (most likely as a joke, however that is not an excuse). 

The characters are very diverse in race, ethnicity, and body type (but not so much in gender or sexuality). They have flaws, are well developed, and multi-faceted. For example, Chelsea despises the industries that would take advantage of her but still feels the pressure of the societal standards women are held to. There is a theme of lack of consequences and resolution throughout the book, which might be intentional on the authors' part considering most of the people who get away with their shenanigans are white. A teacher pushes a racist stereotype on a black student, is called out on it, and, though it is mentioned a few times throughout the story, there is no resolution. Students dress as racist caricatures on school property and get away with it. One male student sexually harasses multiple female students and gets away with it.

There's also no follow up with one of the main character's love interests after he ceases to be relevant to the story. It's almost as if he completely disappears. It even shows up in the finale. Watch Us Rise finished with an open-ending. The reader won't get to see the pay-off, but they do get the experience of trying to enact change. It's not as satisfying as I would like but it is a very good ending all around.

I would recommend reading this book. It's a good portrayal of the frustrations of high school as someone who doesn't fit societal standards. There are a lot of little things about this book that I have critiques about but as a whole, it's a very engaging story. It has an accurate portrayal of sexual harassment and how it is typically dealt with (i.e. not at all), it highlights women of color in all fields, and it has a good message about body positivity. 

Not many writers get an accurate sense of what high school is like or how teenagers talk to each other, but the dialogue doesn't feel forced. I would believe these were real conversations that people were having with each other. The only real criticism I have is, though the book is about activism, it's very cishet-centered activism. LGBT themes are vaguely mentioned but never focused on. The story talks about minority representation but mainstream media is very hetero-normative. Otherwise, the writing is captivating and the poetry is phenomenal. 8.5/10, would recommend.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Reviewed by Donna M.
Grade: 9

Are you curious about all things? Then this is for you! This prestigious novel unleashes the valid truth behind humanity and showcases the solicitous nature or the vicious character behind innumerable subjects. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee reveals the hidden identity of society. Though it's long, each word holds an extensive and profound meaning.

This significant novel is placed in Alabama and revolves around the truth or to prove the innocence of a black man who has been allegedly accused of raping a white woman. Atticus Finch is the sincere and rightful lawyer who has the case in his hand. This series of events has led to an impact on his kids and their never-ending questions on how society includes injustice and poverty. This book exemplifies the topics of color discrimination, race and much more! Dive into the book to find out what the untold truth is.

To Kill a Mockingbird definitely contains stereotypes of the society and how initiatives can enact a new or a fresh look of it. All the characters depicted in the novel have a viewpoint covered and comprehended with the corrupted society. The setting selected can be defined as the best as at one point of time, many conflicts regarding color and races were occurring around that region. I believe there's a distinct connection to the dystopian novel Fahrenheit 451, which discloses a future society and how people behave or how the government is portrayed. Characters in this novel, such as Scout, promote the story to keep going with her innocent questions.

I would absolutely recommend this book for all the middle and high school students and to all audiences out there waiting for an American literature-related book with crucial elements present in today's community. It also includes messages such as to not harm things that don't attack or prey on us, rather to treat all fairly and equally. This book displays how the American society was and the readers get a chance to comprehend how it is now. Besides, It’s also got a mystery to solve on what happened to the lady.

Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood by Trevor Noah

Reviewed by Cole M.
Grade 11

The book Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood is a coming of age tale of a young man in South Africa during and after the Apartheid.

The narrative is split into two separate parts: one being Trevor Noah's childhood and the other his teenage and adolescent years. In his childhood years, he was treated as white by his family and black by the caucasians in South Africa. This leads to him feeling like an outsider no matter where he goes; whether it be the schools or the neighborhoods he lives in. However, during his teenage years he decides to embrace his African identity. One thing allows him to be able to interact with others within the book and that is language. Because of this feeling of loneliness, Trevor figures out people are more welcoming if you speak their language. However, unlike some authors, Trevor doesn't only focus on the bad as he often looks back on the good as well. There are also small blurbs throughout the book discussing the history of Apartheid.

Trevor focuses heavily on race and how it impacted him throughout his life. For instance, he goes into how his relationship with his father was affected by racism during Apartheid. The emphasis on it shows the effect racist ideals used for propaganda in the Apartheid had on people during and after it.

I would highly recommend this book as it was an eye opener for me, but not to the point where it wasn't entertaining. Overall, a very good read.

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

Reviewed by Kaylee O.
Grade 9

Many books try to capture the impact that racism and discrimination have on our society, but none of them compare to how well The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas does. Thomas is able to capture the essence of a young teenage girl who has just witnessed the murder of her childhood best friend. The story is incredibly moving and will make you see things from a different point of view. Thomas’s debut novel captures your attention from the very beginning and doesn’t let it go. This novel will have you on the edge of your seat, wondering what will happen next.

Sixteen-year-old Star lives in two worlds, the poor neighborhood in which she lives and the fancy prep school she attends. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is an emotion-filled book following the aftermath of the shooting of Khalil. There was only one witness to Khalil’s murder, Star. But no one knows she was there when it happened. In the novel, Thomas is able to capture Star’s empowering journey of dealing with Khalil’s death while trying to keep her identity as the witness hidden, and the shock that follows the news of the murder in her neighborhood.

Angie Thomas wrote this book to show the negative impact that racism and incorrect assumptions have on our society. Thomas’s writing style makes you feel like you’re in the exact situation and setting that Star is. It’s almost as if you’re in the character’s shoes throughout the entire novel. In my opinion, only the best-written books make you feel as if you’ve transformed into a completely different world. There are many different things that everyone can relate to in this book, for example, Star struggles to find a balance between school, home life, sports, and friends as many other teenagers do.

Even though this book addresses a difficult topic, I would still recommend it. This is one of my favorite books. I think it’s very important for others to understand the social injustice and racism that minorities go through on a daily basis. Angie Thomas did an amazing job writing this incredibly emotional book.

Dear Martin by Nic Stone

Reviewed by Maansi C.
Grade 10

In the book, Dear Martin by Nic Stone, Justyce McAllister, an African American teenager learns to grapple with society and deals with racism. Justyce McAllister is an African American teenager that goes to a school called Braselton Prep. He is at the top of his class, captain of the debate team, and is set to attend an Ivy League school next year. One night, he decides to go to a party with his friends and sees his ex-girlfriend, a white girl, who is drunk. He decides to drive her home and on the way was stopped by a police officer who thinks Justyce is taking advantage of her. Next thing he knows there are flashing lights and handcuffs around his wrists. After he is released, he studies the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr and writes a journal of letters to Dr. King about the racism and social injustice that he has faced throughout his life. Justyce is driving with his best friend Manny, blasting music with the windows rolled down. A white police officer, who is off duty, pulls up next to them at a stoplight. Words fly and shots are fired, Justyce and Manny are caught in a crossfire.

Nic Stone, the author of Dear Martin, wrote this book to show the ways Justyce McAllister grapples with society. Her writing style allows you to understand the racism that Justyce grapples with. Some pages are written in dialogue that illustrate the offensive things that have been said to Justyce. Some chapters are also written as the letters to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr which show his struggle with how to deal with racism.

Even though this book is a hard topic, I would still recommend this amazing book. It is important to understand the social injustice and racism that happens in society today. It also allows people to understand what minorities go through every day. Nic Stone does an amazing job writing this beautiful, emotional book.