Why?: A Conversation About Race
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on Goodreads (216)
What’s inside...
A piercing picture book about racial injustice from a child’s perspective from Taye Diggs and Shane Evans. 'Daddy?' 'Yes, my sweet boy.' 'Why are those people shouting?' 'Our people are shouting because we need to be heard. We need to be heard.' Why? is a question asked by children daily, and in this striking and timely story, it begins a straightforward and challenging conversation between children of color and the adults in their lives. Why are the buildings burning? Why are people marching? Why are they crying? Taye Diggs has written a beautiful, powerful, and poignant story that peers through the eyes of a child as they struggle to understand why these events are happening. Why? distills the conversations many children and adults are having about race, injustice, and anger in communities throughout our country, and gives them context that young readers can connect with. Heartfelt and deeply piercing illustrations from Shane W. Evans will leave a lasting impact on readers of any age. One that will hopefully lead to more conversations, change, and peace within our own communities and the world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Child
Father
Discussion points
What are some differences and similarities you notice between people in the book and people you know?
Why do you think it's important to talk about race?
How did the characters in the book feel when they discussed race? Can you relate to any of their feelings?
What can we do to treat everyone fairly, regardless of their skin color?
How would you help a friend who is being treated unfairly because of their race?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ensure a safe space for open conversation, reminding your child that all questions and feelings are valid.
Share your own experiences and thoughts related to the book's themes to model open dialogue.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to consider how they would feel in similar situations depicted in the book.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of celebrating diversity and understanding different perspectives.
Reinforce the idea that it's okay to notice differences, but it’s important to treat everyone with kindness and respect.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Diversity
Explanation: The book introduces the concept of racial diversity through a conversation, encouraging children to understand and appreciate differences in skin color and culture.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace and respect their peers from different racial backgrounds, fostering inclusivity in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Through its narrative, the book encourages children to step into others' shoes to understand their experiences and perspectives concerning race.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop empathy towards others, regardless of their racial background, which is crucial in building meaningful and respectful relationships.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Inquiry
Explanation: The title itself, 'Why?', prompts children to ask questions and seek answers about racial differences and societal norms.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive and to learn more about the world around them, promoting a lifelong love for learning and understanding complex topics.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: The book provides a platform for children to analyze and think critically about the concept of race and the importance of social justice.
Real-World Application: Children can use these critical thinking skills to navigate real-world issues and make informed decisions about moral questions in their community.
Example Lesson: Identity and Self-Awareness
Explanation: By exploring race through personal narratives, the book helps children reflect on their own identities and how they perceive others.
Real-World Application: This understanding aids children in developing a strong sense of self and fosters an awareness of their place within their community and the wider world.