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48 pages 1 hour read

How to Be an Antiracist

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Ibram X. Kendi

How to Be an Antiracist

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

305

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi explores the concept of antiracism through the dissection of terms related to racism and personal anecdotes, proposing strategies to counteract racist policies. Kendi emphasizes transforming these policies rather than solely changing individual mindsets, utilizing his experiences and academic background to illustrate the pervasive nature of racism and the need for systemic change. The book addresses sensitive topics like cancer, both personal and as a metaphor.

Informative

Challenging

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.5

145,166 ratings

89%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Kendi's How to Be an Antiracist is praised for its powerful blend of memoir and social analysis, engagingly presenting the concept of antiracism. Reviewers commend its accessibility and urgency, though some critique its repetitiveness and Kendi's personal biases. Overall, the book is seen as a compelling call for introspection and action in dismantling systemic racism.

Who should read this

Who Should Read How to Be an Antiracist?

A reader who would enjoy How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi is someone engaged in social justice, seeking a deeper understanding of systemic racism and practical steps for change. Fans of White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo and Stamped from the Beginning by Kendi himself would find this book compelling.

4.5

145,166 ratings

89%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Ibram X. Kendi

An author and scholar of Black History, who reflects on his own journey to becoming an antiracist advocate and shares personal narratives detailing his growth and understanding of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality. He is the founder and director of the Antiracist Research and Policy Center at Boston University.

Parents of Ibram X. Kendi, who were Christians influenced by the Black Power movement, instilling in him a strong sense of Black identity from a young age.

A Ghanaian classmate of Ibram X. Kendi, mentioned as part of an instance where Kendi reflects on his participation in ethnic racist bullying during his formative years.

Book Details
Pages

305

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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