“I want to take a moment now to check in with you and ask how you might be feeling. Have you noticed any feelings of discomfort while reading this chapter? If so, don’t worry—it’s perfectly normal to feel uncomfortable addressing racism.” This inviting tone is one of the hallmarks of a work that grounds readers in essential history to better understand how what happened in the past has shaped where we are today with regard to racism. The author is mindful of the many ways readers might feel, depending on their identity and experience to-date, and often shares personal examples of her own journey and ongoing learning. A work that addresses racism’s impact on people across various racial and ethnic identities includes chapters on unlearning racism, the origins of white supremacy, Native displacement and genocide, slavery, immigration policies, and the legal system, as well as racist images, and sports. A final chapter, “How You Can Change the Racial Future,” begins by looking at the racial disparities of the current pandemic before moving onto action ideas. Lengthy source notes and an index concludes this work that strives to welcome all readers into understanding and taking action. (Age 12 and older)

This urgent book explores the roots of racism and its legacy in modern day, all while empowering young people with actionable ways they can help foster a better world and become antiracists.

Why are white supremacists still openly marching in the United States? Why are undocumented children of color separated from their families and housed in cages? Where did racism come from? Why hasn’t it already disappeared? And what can young people do about it?

Rise Up! breaks down the origins of racial injustice and its continued impact today, connecting dots between the past and present. By including contemporary examples ripped from headlines and actionable ways young people can help create a more inclusive world, sociologist Crystal Marie Fleming shares the knowledge and values that unite all antiracists: compassion, solidarity, respect, and courage in the face of adversity. Perfect for fans of Stamped: Remix, This Book is Antiracist, Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Boy, and The Black Friend.

Praise for Rise Up!

A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2021
A School Library Journal Best Book of 2021
A Booklist Editors' Choice Winner for 2021

* "A clear and damning appraisal of the United States’ long-standing relationship with White supremacy—with actionable advice for readers to do better." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

* "A standout . . . sure to inspire young people to act." —Booklist, starred review

"Rise Up! is the invigorating, thought-provoking, eye-opening, and essential book about fighting white supremacy that I wish I had when I was a teen. Crystal M. Fleming writes about tough subjects with authority and compassion, and inspires with a roadmap for how we can change the world for the better." —Malinda Lo, author of Last Night at the Telegraph Club