Review By: Anonoymous
Illustrator: Aurélia Durand
Published: 2020
Genre(s): Nonfiction, Social Justice, Personal Growth
Audience: Grades 7–12, Adult
Content Warnings: Racism, racial trauma, police violence, slavery, discrimination, historical violence
Goodreads Link: This Book Is Anti-Racist
Summary:
Tiffany Jewell’s This Book Is Anti-Racist is an empowering and accessible guide to understanding identity, systemic racism, and how to take action toward a more just society. Written in the author’s warm and engaging voice, the book invites readers to reflect on who they are, where they come from, and how they can become active participants in anti-racist work. Divided into four sections—Waking Up, Opening the Window, Choosing My Path, and Holding the Door Open—Jewell blends personal stories, history, and reflection prompts to help readers move from awareness to action.
Review:
Jewell’s writing is powerful, compassionate, and deeply personal. As a biracial educator from Syracuse, New York, she connects her own experiences with larger conversations about race, privilege, and justice in ways that feel genuine and accessible for both teens and adults. The vibrant, inclusive illustrations by Aurélia Durand bring energy and life to the book’s message, making it engaging for young readers.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its interactive nature. Jewell encourages self-reflection through journal prompts, identity mapping, and opportunities for personal growth. Readers are guided to confront their biases, understand historical systems of oppression, and identify ways to act as allies and advocates for equity.
This book would be an excellent classroom resource for middle and high school teachers in English or social studies, especially for units on civil rights, identity, or contemporary social issues. It is also well suited for professional learning or book studies focused on equity and inclusion.
Jewell’s message is ultimately one of empowerment—she challenges readers to learn, unlearn, and act with courage and compassion.
