Take the Mic

August 15, 2019
Central themes emerge in this collection of short stories by a diverse and representative group of authors: courage, bravery, and a refusal to be silenced. In two stories by Darcie Little Badger (contributor: Mythic Journeys, 2019, etc.), Lipan Apache Grace won't be forced into anything, either by boys or so-called allies. Samira Ahmed's (Internment, 2019, etc.) story in verse "Are You the Good Kind of Muslim?" shines a light on Islamophobia and how marginalized people cope with bigotry. In "Aurora Rising" by Yamile Saied Méndez (Where Are You From?, 2019, etc.), Rory, whose mother is from Argentina, won't back down to appease abusive white "friends." Laura Silverman (editor: It's a Whole Spiel, 2019, etc.) chronicles in "Ruth" how a Jewish book blogger addresses internet trolls--and casual anti-Semitism from a friend. Jason Reynolds (contributor: Black Enough, 2019, etc.) and Keah Brown (The Pretty One, 2019, etc.) contribute poems on the cracks in U.S. society, revolution, and the myriad manifestations of resistance, including being #DisabledAndCute. Author and cartoonist Connie Sun contributes a short graphic chapter on heartbreak and hope. Some entries are more successful than others, but overall this is a solid and relevant anthology in which readers of many backgrounds will see their lives mirrored. This ambitious collection is ultimately both worthwhile and timely. (contributor bios) (Anthology. 12-18)

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October 1, 2019

Gr 7 Up-With situations and language that feel contemporary and up-to-the-minute, this collection of short stories, poetry, and art capture small moments of everyday resistance. Editor Morrow has gathered works from a mix of big names and new faces, each demonstrating the tiny moments that underlie what it means to be a teen of color, to worship differently, to live with a disability, or to be your school's lone representative of your culture. These talented writers and artists, including Newbery honoree Jason Reynolds, New York Times best-selling author Samira Ahmed, and webcomic artist Connie Sun, explore themes including microaggressions, fear of the police, resistance fatigue, hate speech on social media platforms, and allyship in a way that feels visceral and real. Readers who find their own experiences reflected in these stories will feel seen and heard, and for others, the book provides windows into the everyday experiences of the teen members of various marginalized groups. VERDICT This anthology is a valuable addition to a social justice collection for its accessibility and breadth, encouraging readers to take the first step toward empathy and compassion for others. -Erin Downey, Boise School District, ID

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2019
Grades 8-11 A harmless prank after band practice and a friendly game of chess are but two situations in this anthology, where characters must choose between being true to themselves and buckling to oppressive forces. For Allie in The Helpers, the specter of racism in the wake of a potential terrorist attack conflicts with her desire to aid rescue workers. In Sophia Quintero's Real Ones, Cami must decide whether to bend to peer pressure to fight another girl or seek a more peaceful solution. In all cases, this collection of 13 stories, poems, and graphic narratives strives to present occasions of resistance in the everyday, as imagined by such names as Jason Reynolds, Samira Ahmed, and Darcie Little Badger. One laudable aspect of this collection is its accessible presentation of sensitive situations, which invite readers to engage in vital and important conversations. Whether telling the story of a trans boy standing up for gender-neutral bathrooms or presenting a poet's ruminations on being the good kind of Muslim, this collection is perfect for the young and politically minded.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)