Talking to Children About Race: Your guide for raising anti-racist kids

I feel I should start this review with something along the lines of "I'm not racist but...". I don't consider myself to be racist, although I was earlier in my life. Having read this highly approachable book I can not only see areas where I can improve (often in very subtle ways), but I can better understand the issues facing people of colour. It has sparked off many conversations with friends and colleagues. I've discussed concepts from it with my kids (14 and 12) and it's made me think deeply about the key issues the book brings up.What I like most about the book however, is the non-judgemental style. It's like joining in a conversation between friends who aren't out to criticise you, just show you a different angle to the life you live. An angle you may not be aware of - even if you think you are. As a middle-aged, white, educated man I tick all the boxes of being privileged. I am aware of this (more so after reading this book) but Andrews and Hill don't make me feel that I should apologise for this or feel awkward for it. They just tell me how it is on the other side of the situation and what I can do to improve this or not make things worse. Yes, the book is aimed at helping parents raise anti-racist kids, but in breaking down complex subjects it also explains it to adults. And that's a very useful concept.

Not just helpful for talking about race with children, but simply an essential guide for talking about race for all ages. Excellently written and compiled, challenging and a must read.

I found this book hugely readable and interesting. It is non judgmental and is not preachy at all- instead it is encouraging us to consider our own thoughts and unconscious bias. The authors also consider their own past mistakes and look at them in a way that we can learn from them. I’ve read this book all the way through once and now find myself dipping in and out of it to re read parts that need more thought. I hugely recommend this book for all parents and guardians to help us make our future society more together and kinder.

Written in plain English; the message is clear. Recommended for all parents.

It was for a gift