It's Not All Black and White: Multiracial Youth Speak Out

(Paperback)

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Description

Black, white, and everything in between Through poems, interviews, and short essays, a group of young people tell what its like to be biracial, multiracial, or of mixed race. These poignant firsthand accounts reflect the unique and varied voices of the writers, whose backgrounds range from Caribbean, Vietnamese, and Latin American to First Nations, Spanish, and Irish, among others. With devastating honesty, the youth tell what its been like to make their way in the world with their roots in many places and in many cultures. Themes include navigating mixed-race relationships, dealing with prejudice and the assumptions people make based on appearances, and working through identity confusion to arrive at a strong and positive sense of self. Readers who share these experiences will find comfort, inspiration, and validation. Those less familiar with the issues will gain important insight and understanding.

Reviews

Compelling graphics and fonts, some resembling handwriting impart a visceral sense of directness and intimacy. Sidebars provide definitions of words that have been used to categorize and define race, ethnicity and interactions among racial groups. People of mixed race will be able to identify with the stories that are shared, and will see themselves reflected in this collection. This important book will be valuable in opening up discussion about issues of racial identity.--Francesca Burgess"School Library Journal" (03/01/2013)
For parents raising multiracial teens or school libraries, this is a terrific resource.--Melissa Singleton Josef"suburbanbarnyard.blogspot.ca" (01/21/2013)
Some are diary entries, some are poems, some are essays, some are interviews; all are powerful, discerning, creative and inspiring.--Christy den Haan-Veltman"Resource Links" (12/01/2012)
Although there are no revelations about this complex and often difficult issue, there are genuine voices [and] much healing.--Jane Haugh"Foreword Reviews" (01/01/2013)
This book carries a compelling message for all, irrespective of cultural make-up.--Aileen Wortley"Canadian Children's Book Centre" (09/30/2012)
The most important part of this book is the feelings the words illuminate.--Jane Haugh"ForeWord Reviews" (11/01/2012)

Author Bio

St. Stephen's Community House has been addressing poverty, homelessness, unemployment, AIDS, racism, youth alienation, and the integration of refugees and immigrants in downtown Toronto since 1962.