Using vignettes of his own experiences with racism to delineate his message, author Joseph crafts a highly accessible and engaging guide to racism and anti-racism for young white people. This guide covers it all. From basics (stereotypes, cultural appropriation, the necessity of correctly pronouncing people's names, terms one should and should not say) to more complex situations and concepts (intersectional oppression, responding to a friend's racism, recognizing bias and assumptions), Joseph challenges readers to become not an ally, but an "accomplice" in fighting racism. Short interviews with activists, writers, rappers, lawyers, and others peppered throughout the book provide additional perspectives and insight. In the back matter, "an encyclopedia of racism" and lists of people to research, books to read, movies to watch, and songs to listen to encourage continued learning. Genuine and direct, Joseph points out that it is not the duty of Black people to educate white people; rather, this book is "a gift, in the form of an opportunity." (Age 11 and older)

The instant New York Times bestseller!

Writing from the perspective of a friend, Frederick Joseph offers candid reflections on his own experiences with racism and conversations with prominent artists and activists about theirs—creating an essential read for white people who are committed anti-racists and those newly come to the cause of racial justice.

“We don’t see color.” “I didn’t know Black people liked Star Wars!” “What hood are you from?” For Frederick Joseph, life as a transfer student in a largely white high school was full of wince-worthy moments that he often simply let go. As he grew older, however, he saw these as missed opportunities not only to stand up for himself, but to spread awareness to those white people who didn’t see the negative impact they were having.

Speaking directly to the reader, The Black Friend calls up race-related anecdotes from the author’s past, weaving in his thoughts on why they were hurtful and how he might handle things differently now. Each chapter features the voice of at least one artist or activist, including Angie Thomas, author of The Hate U Give; April Reign, creator of #OscarsSoWhite; Jemele Hill, sports journalist and podcast host; and eleven others. Touching on everything from cultural appropriation to power dynamics, “reverse racism” to white privilege, microaggressions to the tragic results of overt racism, this book serves as conversation starter, tool kit, and invaluable window into the life of a former “token Black kid” who now presents himself as the friend many readers need. Backmatter includes an encyclopedia of racism, providing details on relevant historical events, terminology, and more.