michelleboydwaters 's review for:

All American Boys by Jason Reynolds, Brendan Kiely

5.0

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As a white teacher with students of color in my classes, I have sought to learn how to be a better teacher to all my kids. Reading this book and experiencing the perspectives of the characters within is a tiny step in the right direction. Through All American Boys, I saw the inner lives of Rashad and his family before, during, and after his brutal beating. I saw the misconceptions that lead to the violence and later lies by his attacker, a police officer. I saw how people look at others and make judgements based on skin color, clothing, uniforms, preconceived notions. I also saw into the lives of his friends and classmates as they dealt with the aftermath. I saw how teachers were muzzled, coaches ignored the issues, parents on both sides try to protect their children. I love how literature and art were used to open people's eyes. The most compelling aspects of this story are the dynamic characters who are capable of seeing their own failings and changing their own attitudes. I want to be one of those people who can look at myself and see where I have messed up, then use that experience as a catalyst for positive change, for seeing the truth of what is happening around me, and standing up for my students. And that is the most important lesson I learned from this book. I have to make sure my students have space in which to be heard and valued.