Author Frederick Joseph introduces himself as a friend in this collection of shared stories and interviews from a person who refers to himself as "the token Black kid." Joseph explains that he hopes the book will serve as a guide for white people to understand the Black community.
As a white person I found much in this book to awaken in myself a more anti-racist view. As Frederick shared personal experiences filled with cringe-worthy references to white people actions and statements, I found times when he wrote of situations I that wouldn't have shown up on my radar as a white person. He brings to light things that infuriate Black people but fail to register for white people.
Each chapter focuses on a personal story of Frederick's and are followed by interviews with writers, activists, lawyers, podcast hosts, and other digital personalities that reinforce Frederick's thoughts and feelings. He also shares the many things he has learned from those he interviewed.
Scattered throughout are entertaining side notes with references and suggestions of characters, books, music, and YouTube videos that Frederick believes everyone should experience. Followed by an Encyclopedia of Racism type dictionary, playlists, and resources, THE BLACK FRIEND has countless offerings for readers to further their knowledge.
A thank you goes to Candlewick Press for providing advanced copies of the THE BLACK FRIEND in the NCTE/ALAN book boxes. The book was officially release in Dec. 2020.
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