Stand Up and Speak Out Against Racism

December 1, 2023
Grades 4-7 Abdel-Magied is more than her race, ethnicity, language group, and visa status, and she wants young readers to know they are, too. She divides this guide on anti-racism into three parts. The first section discusses the history of racism, introducing such concepts as race as a social invention and the differences between race, nationality, and ethnicity. The next section looks at racism today, emphasizing the hierarchical forms of internalized, interpersonal, institutional, and systemic racism and how these can be seen in school and police systems. The final section offers strategies on how to act against racism, answering such questions as "How can I be racist if I didn't mean it?" or "What should I do if someone is racist to me?" Throughout the book, the author uses a comforting tone while acknowledging the weight of this subject matter. Frequent metaphors, such as climbing a mountain with a heavy backpack, help explain terms like equality, equity, and justice, with myriad infographics and visuals providing more context to this social-justice resource.

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Starred review from November 17, 2023

Gr 4-8-One of the latest publications to tackle the history and lasting impact of racism alongside ways in which the next generation may combat it. What makes this title stand out from the recent slew of antiracist children's literature is author Abdel-Magied, who is Muslim, Sudanese-born, raised in Australia, and currently living in the United Kingdom. She uses her own experiences to make clear that racism is not just an American problem, and offers readers a look into its origins and current realities in Europe and around the world. Her prose is clear and unflinching yet accessible to a young audience, speaking to them gently when the content gets sensitive, emphasizing the need to remain safe when intervening, and providing them with a number of constructive tools to apply to their own lives. This comprehensive text may work as a useful supplemental teaching tool in humanities classes, especially at schools with an international student body. The back matter includes a glossary, index, and a brief selection of resources for further research. VERDICT A straightforward yet encouraging discussion on the fight against racism with a uniquely global perspective.-Alexandra Quay

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