In 'So You Want to Talk About Race', Ijeoma Oluo provides an unflinching look at the complexities of race in America, tackling issues of privilege, identity, and systemic injustice. Using personal anecdotes and powerful insights, she encourages readers to confront uncomfortable truths and engage in meaningful dialogues about race. Oluo demystifies difficult conversations, offering practical advice for discussing race in both personal and professional settings. With a deft blend of honesty and humor, she empowers readers to take active roles in combating racism. This book is not just a guide; it's a call to action for anyone seeking to understand and address the profound effects of racism in our society.
By Ijeoma Oluo
Published: 2019
"We have to educate ourselves about the ways that race impacts our lives and the opportunities we have, and we must be brave enough to confront the discomfort that comes with it."
In this New York Times bestseller, Ijeoma Oluo explores the complex reality of today's racial landscape--from white privilege and police brutality to systemic discrimination and the Black Lives Matter movement--offering straightforward clarity that readers need to contribute to the dismantling of the racial divide. In So You Want to Talk About Race, Editor at Large of The Establishment Ijeoma Oluo offers a contemporary, accessible take on the racial landscape in America, addressing head-on such issues as privilege, police brutality, intersectionality, micro-aggressions, the Black Lives Matter movement, and the "N" word. Perfectly positioned to bridge the gap between people of color and white Americans struggling with race complexities, Oluo answers the questions readers don't dare ask, and explains the concepts that continue to elude everyday Americans. Oluo is an exceptional writer with a rare ability to be straightforward, funny, and effective in her coverage of sensitive, hyper-charged issues in America. Her messages are passionate but finely tuned and crystalize ideas that would otherwise be vague by empowering them with aha-moment clarity. Her writing brings to mind voices like Ta-Nehisi Coates, Roxane Gay, Jessica Valenti in Full Frontal Feminism, and a young Gloria Naylor, particularly in Naylor's seminal essay "The Meaning of a Word."
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Ana Lorena Fabrega is an innovative educator and author passionate about reimagining education. Known as “Ms. Fab,” she is the Chief Evangelist at Synthesis, an education startup inspired by the problem-solving and collaboration model used at SpaceX. She advocates for alternative learning methods, encouraging curiosity and creativity in students. Ana's work emphasizes the importance of engaging young learners in real-world challenges and critical thinking. She also shares insights on education reform through her popular newsletter, Fab Fridays.
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
Matt Mullenweg is an influential American entrepreneur and web developer, best known for co-founding WordPress, the open-source software that powers over 40% of the web. Born in 1984 in Houston, Texas, Mullenweg's work has revolutionized digital publishing and democratized web content creation. As the CEO of Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, he has expanded the platform's reach and capabilities, fostering a vibrant community of developers and users. Mullenweg is also an advocate for open-source software and has contributed significantly to its proliferation and adoption. His impact on digital literature and publishing is profound, enabling countless individuals and organizations to share their voices online.
Ayaan Hirsi Ali is a Somali-born Dutch-American activist, author, and former politician, renowned for her outspoken criticism of Islam and advocacy for women's rights. She gained international recognition with her 2006 memoir, "Infidel," which chronicles her journey from a traditional Muslim upbringing to her eventual renouncement of Islam. As a member of the Dutch parliament from 2003 to 2006, she worked tirelessly on issues related to the integration of immigrants and the emancipation of Muslim women. Hirsi Ali has continued her advocacy through her writing, including notable works such as "Nomad" and "Heretic," which further explore themes of freedom, religion, and human rights. Her courageous and often controversial stance has earned her both widespread acclaim and significant opposition.
Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.
Showing 8 of 21 related collections
“We have to educate ourselves about the ways that race impacts our lives and the opportunities we have, and we must be brave enough to confront the discomfort that comes with it.”
So You Want to Talk About Race
By Ijeoma Oluo
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Ijeoma Oluo is a critically acclaimed author, speaker, and cultural critic known for her incisive exploration of race, identity, and social justice. Her bestselling book, 'So You Want to Talk About Race,' has garnered widespread praise for its accessible yet profound examination of racial dynamics in America. Oluo's writing style is characterized by its candid and conversational tone, making complex topics relatable and engaging for a diverse audience. She is also the author of 'Mediocre: The Dangerous Legacy of White Male America,' further solidifying her voice in the conversation surrounding privilege and power. Through her work, Oluo aims to empower readers to engage in meaningful dialogues about equity and justice.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Fire Next Time," James Baldwin delivers a hauntingly powerful exploration of race, religion, and identity in America. Through two eloquent letters, he reflects on his experiences as a Black man and contemplates the deep-seated injustices that persist in society. With raw honesty, Baldwin challenges not just the systemic racism that engulfs his country, but also the moral implications of faith and love in the face of oppression. As he grapples with the future of race relations, he forewarns of an impending reckoning—one that could ignite a transformative fire. Prepare to be captivated by Baldwin's lyrical prose and profound insights that remain strikingly relevant today.
In 'Evicted', Matthew Desmond immerses readers in the harsh realities of housing instability in America. Following eight families in Milwaukee, he reveals how eviction is not just a symptom of poverty but a driving force that perpetuates it. Through vivid storytelling and rich social research, Desmond highlights the emotional and financial toll of losing a home. As we witness their struggles and resilience, the book challenges preconceived notions about poverty and housing. It's a powerful call to action that compels readers to reconsider the importance of stable housing in achieving social justice.
In 'Human Rights and United States Policy Toward Latin America,' Lars Schoultz delves into the complex interplay between U.S. foreign policy and human rights in Latin America. The book challenges conventional narratives by revealing how strategic interests often overshadow humanitarian concerns. Through meticulously researched case studies, Schoultz illustrates the paradoxes that define American intervention in the region. Readers will encounter gripping confrontations between moral imperatives and political machinations, inviting reflection on the true cost of policy choices. This compelling analysis prompts us to reevaluate the ethical dimensions of power and complicity in shaping the lives of millions.
In 'The Long Peace,' historian John Lewis Gaddis examines the unprecedented stability of the post-World War II era, delving into the geopolitical dynamics that have shaped international relations. With a focus on the interplay between military power and diplomatic negotiations, Gaddis challenges readers to rethink traditional narratives of conflict and resolution. He explores how the balance of power and nuclear deterrence have played crucial roles in maintaining peace among nuclear-armed states. This thought-provoking analysis not only sheds light on the past but also poses critical questions about the future of global peace. Prepare to be captivated by Gaddis's insights as he unravels the complexities of a remarkably long-lasting tranquility.
In 'Book of Longing', Leonard Cohen unveils a deeply personal exploration of desire, spirituality, and the quest for meaning. Through poetic verses and striking imagery, he invites readers into a world where longing intertwines with love and loss. Each page offers a glimpse into Cohen's soul, revealing the profound questions of existence that have haunted him. This collection not only showcases his lyrical genius but also resonates with anyone who has ever searched for connection. Discover the haunting beauty of longing through the eyes of a master storyteller.
In 'Pale Fire', a renowned poet named John Shade pens a 999-line poem that becomes the center of a complex, multi-layered narrative. The poem is presented alongside a commentary by his obsessive neighbor, Charles Kinbote, who reveals his own tumultuous past and eccentric worldview. As the two narratives intertwine, secrets unfold and identities blur, leaving readers questioning the nature of authorship and reality. Nabokov's masterful prose invites exploration of obsession, art, and the subjective truths we create. This intricately crafted tale is not just a poem and its analysis, but a thrilling puzzle that challenges perception and understanding.
In 'Something Deeply Hidden,' physicist Sean Carroll explores the enigmatic world of quantum mechanics and the implications of many-worlds interpretation. He invites readers to rethink our understanding of reality, suggesting a universe where every possibility exists simultaneously. With engaging prose and compelling arguments, Carroll delves into the philosophical conundrums and scientific breakthroughs that challenge conventional thinking. As he intertwines intricate concepts with accessible explanations, readers are left pondering the nature of existence itself. This thought-provoking journey promises to expand horizons and ignite curiosity about the fabric of our universe.