THE OTHER TALK: RECKONING WITH OUR WHITE PRIVILEGE, by Brendan Kiely and introduction by Jason Reynolds, Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books, Sept. 21, 2021, Hardcover, $18.99 (young adult)
Author Brendan Kiely starts a conversation with white kids about race in The Other Talk: Reckoning with Out White Privilege.
Talking about racism can be hard, but…
Most kids of color grow up talking about racism. They have “The Talk” with their families—the honest talk about survival in a racist world.
But white kids don’t. They’re barely spoken to about race at all — and that needs to change. Because not talking about racism doesn’t make it go away. Not talking about white privilege doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
The Other Talk begins this much-needed conversation for white kids. In an instantly relatable and deeply honest account of his own life, Brendan Kiely offers young readers a way to understand one’s own white privilege and why allyship is so vital, so that we can all start doing our part — today. —Synopsis provided by Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books
The Other Talk is an uncomfortable read, and rightly so. It helps white readers reframe their experiences and question outcomes.
The book could easily come across as preachy or pushy, but it doesn’t. Rather, author Brendan Kiely compares instances from his own life with those of color. The differences are stark and eye opening.
Kiely’s writing is conversational and inviting. He asks lots of questions. He gives readers room to think and grow. Kiely makes it clear he’s not an expert on race, racism and white privilege, and that’s OK. Sometimes following someone else’s progress is exactly what you need to start your own.
The Other Talk is a great resource for teens, but it’s also applicable to adults. It’s a book that sticks with you, and I found myself reframing conversations with my 7-year-old because of it.
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