From the Publisher
"A wonderfully entertaining and original picture book."—Midwest Book Review
"Tackles with frankness a sensitive and uncomfortable subject . . . An open invitation to adults to engage children about racism." —Friends Journal
"Uses a narrative structure to convey both the gravity of this collective trauma and the unrelenting nature of racism in America."—The Englewood Review of Books
"The book breaks down what is happening in our country without watering down the seriousness of racism…its words and illustrations embody a sensitivity that young children need." —Christian Century
"There's a candor here that’s not always found in picture book treatments of social issues and racism, and the specificity mirrors conversations likely held in many households." —Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
"Understandable and relatable, this timely book shows social justice issues and gives readers action steps and hope."—Imagination Soup
Named a "Must-Read Book About Race" by Essence
"Jeremiah's reactions serve as a starting point for facilitating discussions about racism and violence against Black people." —Publishers Weekly
"Essential reading...touches on the deaths of Trayvon Martin, Jordan Edwards, and more, but manages to end on a hopeful note, providing a gentle way of broaching the topic with kids."—D Magazine
Named "Book Cover of the Month" by the Christian Century
Kirkus Reviews
2020-05-17
One family navigates their young son through what seems to be an unending cycle of race-related gun violence.
Pastor, professor, and activist Waters draws on intimate family experiences in this attempt to answer many of the critical questions that have arisen over the past decade. Violence seems to be everywhere Jeremiah looks. On the computer is the story of Trayvon Martin; on the television, Michael Brown. In the paper is the Mother Emanuel A.M.E. Church. One night, the gunshots even ring outside Jeremiah’s home as the family gathers together. All the while, Jeremiah accumulates these experiences until he finally exclaims: “I’m tired of people hurting each other! I’m tired of people shooting each other!” His parents recognize his deep frustration and encourage him to channel the energy, as they do, into actions that combine to create new realities: voting, marching, praying, organizing, and educating. For them, all these strategies show that change is possible and will come one day if we commit to them en masse. However, Waters conflates police violence, white-supremacist violence, and neighborhood violence into one simplified linear narrative. Although they all affect communities like Jeremiah’s, they demand different remedies, a critical understanding that’s not made explicit for young readers. Morris’ simple, heartfelt illustrations reflect the book’s emotions.
Encouraging but simplistic, the book strives to offer dignity, agency, and hope for a new generation of black youth but doesn’t quite manage. (author’s note, discussion guide) (Picture book. 6-10)
