Realistic Fiction, African American, Racism and Prejudice, Fencing, Coming of Age
239 pages.
Description
Booklist starred (March 1, 2020 (Vol. 116, No. 13))
“Grades 5-8. A profound treatise about institutional racism for the middle-grade set, Rhodes’ (Ghost Boys, 2018) latest elevates beyond simple moralizing into a penetrating look into the soul of a young person struggling with how to become a Black man of character in a world that expects him to be less. Dropping the reader directly into a tony prep-school office where Donte anxiously awaits judgement for an offense he did not commit, Rhodes dials readers immediately into the boy’s acute dread as he cycles through feelings of shame, anger, and confusion, ultimately leading to a nonconfrontation that causes him to be arrested. As we learn more about Donte and his biracial family, including his lighter-skinned brother, we come to root for him and his pursuit of redemption as he seeks to prove his self-worth to his bullies and his school community through fencing. His coach, one of the first Black Olympic fencers, helps him refine his talent and his ability to deal with the inequities he experiences on a regular basis. An entertaining story and happy ending does not take away from this powerful examination of how the educational and justice systems punitively treat children of color—and how this bias impacts their self-perception and esteem. A powerful work and a must-have for children’s collections.”
My Comments This is a powerful story that skillfully weaves a classic Rocky-like story with serious messages about the effects of cruel and undeserved racism. Rhodes incorporates valuable lessons about redirecting hurt and anger into positive action. Dante comes from a tightly knit, loving family who helps him deal with racist bullying by standing beside him and validating his emotions. Discovering a way to channel his emotions and to develop his confidence through fencing brings the story to a new level that can resonate with all readers. The afterward provides information about the effects of racism on children with links to further reading. An excellent choice for all middle schoolers. Pair this with Stamped by Jason Reynolds, a YA remix of Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi.
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