Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Boy

A popular YouTube series on race, "Uncomfortable Conversations With a Black Man," turns how-to manual and history lesson for young readers. Acho is a former NFL player and second-generation Nigerian American who cites his upbringing in predominantly White spaces as well as his tenure on largely Black football teams as qualifications for facilitating the titular conversations about anti-Black racism. The broad range of subjects covered here includes implicit bias, cultural appropriation, and systemic racism. Each chapter features brief overviews of American history, personal anecdotes of Acho's struggles with his own anti-Black biases, and sections titled "Let's Get Uncomfortable." The book's centering of Whiteness and White readers seems to show up, to the detriment of its subject matter, both in Acho's accounts of his upbringing and his thought processes regarding race. The overall tone unfortunately conveys a sense of expecting little from a younger generation who may have a greater awareness than he did at the same age and who, therefore, may already be uncomfortable with racial injustice itself. The attempt at an avuncular tone disappointingly reads as condescending, revealing that, despite his online success with adults, the author is ill-equipped to be writing for middle-grade readers. Chapters dedicated to explaining to White readers why they shouldn't use the N-word and how valuable White allyship is may make readers of color (and many White readers) bristle with indignation and discomfort despite Acho's positive intentions. Ultimately adds little to conversations about race. (glossary, FAQ, recommended reading, references) (Nonfiction. 10-14)

COPYRIGHT(2021) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. (Online Review)

June 18, 2021

Gr 6-10-A young readers adaptation of Acho's Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man, this is an examination of systemic racism as experienced by a Nigeran-American young man who was educated in predominately white institutions. The author's upbringing and experiences coupled with his time in the NFL has allowed him to develop relationships with people from all walks of life. These relationships and the murder of George Floyd led Acho to create his YouTube series "Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man." This volume gives younger readers an entry point to having conversations of their own about race and racism. Acho explains the ways racism continues to negatively impact Black people today. Readers are introduced to the unjust laws and housing and health care practices that continue to prop up the system of white supremacy. He also provides insight into Black culture for non-Black readers. He explores what being an ally means, protesting safely, and speaking up confidently. Readers of all races can use this resource to begin having crucial conversations about the need to dismantle systemic racism in this country. VERDICT A strong addition for public and school libraries who want to offer safe spaces for these necessary conversations. Pair with Frederick Joseph's The Black Friend: On Being a Better White Person.-Desiree Thomas, Worthington Lib., OH

Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from May 1, 2021
Grades 5-8 *Starred Review* NFL player Acho took the world by storm with his web series addressing racial inequities by bringing white and Black people together in conversation. This title is born of that web series, offering young readers a play-by-play of America's dark history of racism at its various levels and pushing them to break the long-standing cycle of racialized injustice. Broken into three main parts, the book moves through cultural differences and stereotypes, institutionalized racism, and finally allyship and change. Standout chapters include the myth of the superpredator, the weaponization of whiteness, and the evolution of voter suppression. These subjects can be difficult for even the most well-versed in antiracist work, and, subsequently, each chapter is broken into digestible sections that teach, address discomfort, and offer actionable steps and resources. Acho, a Nigerian American man, very intentionally situates himself as cultural insider and outsider as it relates to both whiteness and Blackness--a move that works well for young readers who may be skeptical of their narrator's intention and understanding. There is humor, lightness, and relatability in Acho's reliance on pop culture and experience that will make this title a standout for use in classrooms, libraries, and homes. Included are extensive recommendations for further learning and a "Quick Talks" section that offers brief responses to commonly asked questions surrounding Blackness. This book may be marketed to a middle-grade audience, but whether you are 18 or 80, there's something to learn from in this thought-provoking pick.

COPYRIGHT(2021) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.