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“In this condensed version of her 2021 adult original, South Side of Chicago native McGhee explores the toll racial injustice past and present takes on the life of every American. …The central argument of the book, however, is that our understanding of key social justice concepts is limited: We tend not to recognize that while racism is demonstrably and violently harmful to non-White people, it also results in White Americans’ suffering in marked and measurable ways.”

Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

The Sum of Us: How Racism Hurts Everyone (Adapted for Young Readers)

Written by Heather McGhee
Published by Yearling

The New York Times bestseller, adapted for a new generation of young readers, leaders, thinkers, and activists. A groundbreaking call to action that examines how racism affects and harms all of us and how we need to face it head-on, together.

The future can be prosperous for everyone, but only if we address the problems of racial and economic inequality.

McGhee believes that all people, of all ages and all backgrounds, need to rethink their attitude toward race and strive together to create opportunities that benefit everyone.

This book is a call to action. McGhee examines how damaging racism is, not only to people of color but also to white people. She offers hope and real solutions so we can all prosper. An expert in economic policy, McGhee draws lessons both from her work at a think tank and from her travels around the country talking to everyday Americans fighting for a more just and inclusive society.

The people she meets prove how the stories we tell ourselves about race and belonging influence the policies that determine our shared economic future.

The Sum of Us provides hope that with understanding and open-mindedness, the world can be more united and equitable than it is today.

Primary ISBN: 9780593562628
Publication Date: February 2023
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
Middle Grade, Nonfiction, Age 10 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , ,

Setting: Various

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

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Source: Random House Children’s Books