How to Be an Antiracist by Ibrim X. Kendi
Reviewed by: Beth, Communications Specialist
Genre: Nonfiction
Suggested Age: Adults, Teens
What is this Book About?: “Being an antiracist requires persistent self-awareness, constant self-criticism, and regular self-examination.” Kendi is an award-winning author, historian, and director of the Center for Antiracist Research at Boston University, and his concept of antiracism – and how to build an antiracist society – reinvigorates the dialogue around racial justice. Kendi uses stories from his own life to explain his growth as an activist (including his own ingrained racist beliefs) with an effective mix of history, science, law, and ethics to drive home his call to action and vision for a more equitable future for our country.
My Review: Kendi offers a straightforward approach to understanding racism in America and calls for readers to challenge themselves beyond awareness into conversation and action. No matter where you currently stand on the spectrum of awareness, you’ll learn something about your country, your neighbors and yourself. Some of the concepts explored are important though not unique to the author (e.g. ‘race’ is a false construct), but Kendi does emphasize that it’s not enough to consider yourself “not racist.” One must consistently work on being antiracist and not perpetuating racist systems in order to make a difference. His perspective is informed and informative, entirely accessible to someone who is learning about systemic racism but still instructive to those who are already more invested. The audiobook is read by the author, and hearing his words makes them even more impactful. I think any of Kendi’s works could be considered essential reading for these tumultuous times, particularly for his optimism for moving forward together.
Three Words That Describe This Book: Emergent, Rousing, Thought-provoking
Give This a Try if You Like… Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi, The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Rating: 4/5
About FDL Reads
FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.
