Gr 5–8—Stephen is a biracial kid growing up in New York City who feels like life is constantly challenging him to pick
a lane—Black friends or white friends? He doesn't want to choose, but he's finding it increasingly hard not to see
racism in how he and others are treated. Maldonado's story of identity, friendship, and justice will strike a chord with
young audiences.

Good, quick, fictional entry to black experience 101 for youths ( )

RGG: A tiny bit didatic, but the issue of a bi-racial sixth grader navigating how society might see him, how his white and Black peers might see him, and the example of a good white ally friend plus the portrayal of male friendships, the use of vernacular and the low page count make for a good read, and a hi/lo read.

RGG: A tiny bit didatic, but the issue of a bi-racial sixth grader navigating how society might see him, how his white and Black peers might see him, and the example of a good white ally friend plus the portrayal of male friendships, the use of vernacular and the low page count make for a good read, and a hi/lo read.

If you are looing for a relatively gentle book to explore the topic of racism with your child or your students or a book group or something like that -- this book is great. It's representational and models ways to be a great ally, in addition to delving deeply into Stephen's experiences. I love that Maldonado doesn't hesitate to point out everyday racism, and gives a variety of situations that his characters navigate. Huge strengths, and it's a topical and engaging book.

If you are looking for a book with a strong plotline, that focuses on story or setting, that really isn't the point of this book. This is a book about identity, and about racism, and about thinking deeply on those topics. I found it very internal, kind of like George (Alex Gino), is on the topic of trans identity.

Note: WAY BETTER as a print book rather than as an audiobook. The audio book came across as extremely didactic. That effect was very much lessened by print, and the story came through more. ( )