The Black Friend: On Being a Better White Person

Gearing this volume toward white people “who want to be better,” Joseph offers anecdotes about his experiences with racism and white supremacy—including the first time he visited a white friend’s house and his first encounter with a security guard at age 11—interlacing them with clear explanations of “the historic and current iniquities and disparities plaguing Black people and people of color as a whole.” Supported by an Encyclopedia of Racism at book’s end and studded with contextualizing boxes, the text frequently employs humor (“I’m not going to even bother explaining The Fresh Prince”) while leading readers through topics such as “This Isn’t a Fad; This Is My Culture”; “So Your Relative Is Racist. What Should You Do?”; and “Let’s Not Do Oppression Olympics.” Interviews with author Angie Thomas, journalist Jemele Hill, and others contribute discussions on the problem with “color blindness” and the importance of personal growth, among various topics. In a genial, assured tone, Joseph invites and encourages readers to reflect on their own behavior, move toward anti-racism, and implement change. Ages 12–up. Agent: Alex Slater, Trident Media Group. (Dec.)