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This Is My America

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Kim Johnson

This Is My America

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Texas • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2020

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL640L

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Super Short Summary

In This Is My America by Kim Johnson, Tracy Beaumont fervently works to prove her father's innocence after he was wrongfully convicted of murder and sentenced to death. As investigations progress, her brother Jamal is implicated in a new crime, prompting Tracy to uncover deeply rooted racism and white nationalism in their community while fighting systemic injustices within the criminal justice system. The book addresses violence, including murder and police brutality.

Suspenseful

Emotional

Challenging

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.6

9,897 ratings

91%

Loved it

7%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Kim Johnson's This Is My America is praised for its gripping exploration of racism and the flaws in the American criminal justice system. The novel's compelling narrative and strong character development resonate with readers, though some mention its pacing could be uneven at times. Nevertheless, it serves as a potent call for social justice and reform.

Who should read this

Who Should Read This Is My America?

A reader who would enjoy This Is My America by Kim Johnson is likely passionate about social justice, racial inequality, and the criminal justice system. Fans of Angie Thomas's The Hate U Give and Nic Stone's Dear Martin will find similar powerful narratives and thought-provoking themes.

4.6

9,897 ratings

91%

Loved it

7%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

Character List

Tracy Beaumont

A determined and strong-willed protagonist devoted to securing her father's freedom while leading a personal journey of advocacy for justice, inspiring others with her commitment.

Tracy's older brother who faces harsh scrutiny from the media and the justice system while in hiding, symbolizing the racial biases faced by Black men.

A childhood friend and supporter of Tracy, offering assistance in her investigation and sharing a deep bond that evolves into a romantic relationship.

Quincy's relative who works in law enforcement, aiming to change the system from within despite conflicting loyalties, eventually proving her commitment to justice.

A lawyer from Innocence X who works tirelessly to help Tracy's family, building a strong relationship with them through compassion and dedication.

Tracy's friend who struggles with internal biases, impacting his relationship with her, but ultimately remains a supportive figure despite past familial associations.

A character whose actions and biases reflect the complexities and cycles of racism within her community, impacting the lives and justice of other characters.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Texas • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2020

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL640L

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