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Book Review: How to Fight Racism (Young Reader's Edition)

Editor's Note: This review was originally published in San Francisco Book Review

Author Jemar Tisby

Jemar Tisby’s adaptation of How to Fight Racism to suit a younger audience is a thoughtful and courageous attempt to bring racial consciousness to the Christian family. Aimed at children ages eight through twelve, Tisby breaks down complicated and often-thorny subjects in a way that is easy for young readers to understand. Chapters that feature brave actions and words by activists and scholars such as Jane Elliott, Howard Thurman, John Lewis, Ruby Bridges, and others show the power of standing up for racial justice. In addition to historical background, the book offers excellent learning tools and frameworks, such as lists of “questions to consider,” the ARC of racial justice, and steps to racial identity development.

It’s never too early to start the conversation with children about the effects of prejudice and how to work toward social change. From a Christian perspective, Tisby argues that racism is not simply a difference of opinion: it is a sin. He challenges young people to take up “courageous Christianity,” that is, to fully embody the value that all people are made in the image of God. The book is a great read for young readers and their parents from all racial and ethnic backgrounds. Together as learners, they can understand the history of race, develop awareness about racism, and commit to building a racially inclusive community. 

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