A review by natashamuse
An Abolitionist's Handbook: 12 Steps to Changing Yourself and the World by Patrisse Cullors

A frustrating read. There was some interesting stuff in here, and some thoughtful stuff in there, but I didn't like it. The examples and stories didn't feel like they really connected to the topic, and it kinda rambled in parts. The structure she sets up at the beginning seemed like a good idea at first. But her efforts to adhere to it made it feel arbitrary and pointless. I feel like the whole the whole thing wants to be a "how-to" but it's more like a "what I learned" which is similar but not what you expect out of something claiming to be a handbook.
I also understood, as I made my way through the book, that I am not the intended audience. I'm not Black and I can't claim to be an abolitionist, full stop. Obviously, this is fine, that's how things work, nothing is for everyone. But I wish I had known that going in, as I probably would have approached it differently.
Anyway, it was fine. I'm glad I read it. It spurred a few good conversations in our house.