Book Review: Not So Black and White

Editor's Note: This review was originally published in Seattle Book Review.

Reggie Dabbs

John Driver

Christian pastors and fellow Southerners Reggie Dabbs and John Driver have been friends for many years. While they have collaborated on writing projects before, co-authoring Not So Black and White is the first time either of them has written a book addressing racism in the Christian church in America. The result is a frank and honest dialogue between two men of faith (one Black, the other White) and their appeal to Christians to examine and reconcile their knee-jerk reactions to politicized terminology with the teachings of the Bible. Racism is incompatible with the gospel, and living a good Christian life requires action toward compassion, humility, and inclusivity.

Ideological and historical systems of racial injustice affect the nation and its systems, and the church continues to be complicit. In candid and simple language, Dabbs and Driver attempt to reclaim the conversation about racism from the typical conservative discourse that vilifies liberals and socialists. Demystifying “hot-button” terms such as systemic racism, social justice, and white privilege, the authors drive home the point that valuing Black lives should not be seen as a political issue.

There’s always an opportunity to listen to each other, regardless of political or theological leanings. Not So Black and White is an excellent read for anyone looking to bridge the gap between what the gospel says about equity and justice and current polarization concerning issues about race and racism in America.

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