Woke

by Elizabeth Acevedo

First published 2020

This poetry collection brings together voices from Mahogany L. Browne, Elizabeth Acevedo, and Olivia Gatwood to spark activism in young readers. The poems tackle discrimination head on while celebrating the joy found in fighting for what's right. Each piece pushes kids to speak up against injustice they witness in their communities and schools. The writers explore how empathy builds bridges and acceptance creates change. Theodore Taylor's vibrant artwork amplifies each poem's emotional impact. The collection shows how poets have always stood at the front lines of social movements, from civil rights to contemporary struggles. Young readers discover tools to express their own views on fairness and inequality through creative writing. Jason Reynolds provides the foreword, connecting this work to the broader tradition of activist literature. The book transforms abstract concepts of justice into concrete actions kids can take in their daily lives.

Genres: american-fiction, african-american, poetry, activism

Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking

Tropes: found-family, social-commentary

56 pages · Hardcover · Roaring Brook Press

Content warnings: racism, sexism

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