A review by jwinchell
Black Brother, Black Brother by Jewell Parker Rhodes

4.0

Donte is in 7th grade and is a lot darker than his very light brother Trey. Donte finds himself in trouble a lot at their new private school in MA, so much so that administration calls the police and Donte is taken to the police station in front of the whole school and Uber bully Alan. Alan is the top player on the fencing team, and Donte, seeking revenge and power of his own, decides to learn fencing. Trey joins him as they train with a former fencing Olympian. Previously unsure of himself and always doubting others’ belief in him, the ultimate showdown comes between Donte and Alan. About navigating racism and colorism, this is a high low novel that will appeal to striving readers who want action and real life issues. Fencing terminology is explained well and pictures help explain fencing concepts. The author’s afterword is about the school to prison pipeline.

Here’s a taste:

“Contradictions rattle, hurt my mind. (Be tough. Don’t be tough. Don’t be tough, get bullied. Be black, tough can get you killed). I shake my head. Bullies, prejudice, ignorant people make life hard.”

Not the most beautiful prose but accessible and an important novel for middle grade to teen readers.