Let's Talk About Race
What’s inside...
In this acclaimed book, the author of the Newbery Honor Book To Be a Slave, Julius Lester, shares his own story as he explores what makes each of us special. The book is highly recommended for its ability to act as a springboard for discussions about differences. Karen Barbour's vibrant paintings complement Lester's message, which is that race is just one chapter in a person's story. The book encourages children to learn, grow, and discuss differences, ultimately helping to create a future that resolves these differences. Julius Lester emphasizes that our lives are stories, and by sharing these stories, we might see that our lives are the same story, with differences only in the details.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think people feel when they are treated differently because of their race?
What are some ways you can help everyone feel included and respected?
Can you think of a time when you learned something new about someone different from yourself?
Why do you think it's important to talk about race?
How can understanding our differences make us better friends or classmates?
Tip: Role play these questions
Initiate the conversation with a positive and open mindset to make your child feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics.
Use examples from the book to point out how diversity enriches our lives and communities.
Encourage your child to share their feelings and experiences related to race, listening attentively without judgment.
Reinforce the idea that it's okay to ask questions about race and promote continuous learning about different cultures and backgrounds.
Connect the discussion to real-life situations or current events to help your child understand the relevance and importance of the topic.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding equality
Explanation: Through personal narratives and reflections on history, 'Let's Talk About Race' breaks down the concept that race is just a part of who we are, not defining our entire identity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate everyone's unique identity without preconceived notions, fostering inclusivity in school and playground interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of personal stories
Explanation: Julius Lester shares his own story and encourages readers to think about their own history and how it shapes them, illustrating the power of personal experiences.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to listen to and share stories with others to better understand diverse perspectives, enriching their social interactions.
Example Lesson: Challenging stereotypes
Explanation: The book explores how history, culture, and race shape stereotypes, and it encourages critical thinking about these preconceptions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by questioning generalizations and forming their own opinions about others based on personal interactions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through discussions on race and individual differences, the book promotes empathizing with others regardless of their background.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in developing deeper emotional connections and respect for others' feelings and experiences.