BOOK REVIEW: When They Call You a Terrorist

When They Call You a Terrorist by Patrisse Khan-Cullors and Asha Bandele

Patrisse is one of the co-founders of the Black Lives Matter movement, and this book serves as her memoir. Within these pages, Patrisse recounts many moments from her child and young-adulthood that shaped her into the person she is today: her sexual identity, her family dynamics, and her racial identity. But what really sticks with the reader is Patrisse’s deep discussion of the mentally ill.

What few people realize is that much of Patrisse’s drive to begin the BLM movement came about from the mistreatment of her mentally ill brother during his multiple arrests and subsequent incarceration. Patrisse beautifully connects the harsh realities of our justice system with the intent to help those who are most vulnerable. The YA version is pictured, and it would be a great required reading for high school students.

Thank you to @macmillan.audio for my gifted ALC

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For quite some time, I wasn’t sure how I wanted to review this book. I should mention that this is the kind of book that sticks with you long after you’ve finished. It impacted me in such a way that I didn’t feel I could do it justice. But when I came across a high school friend’s personal post, I knew she was able to articulate what I could not.

Everyone, meet Stephanie. She’s a remarkable individual and a fantastic new mother. She’s given her permission for you all to connect with her powerful story, and I hope you’ll scroll through the next few graphics and read what she wrote.