Not Talking About You
by Kevin heronJones
Included in the Social Emotional Learning collection
Not Talking About You portrays racism as it occurs amongst young Canadians today. It explores the impact on the target and on bystanders who have to decide how to react when they find a racist youth in their midst.
Part of a well-off middle-class family living in suburban Toronto, Khalil moves for grade eight to a school  that does not have many racialized students. He is befriended by school sports star Cameron, who convinces Khalil to play basketball. Khalil is uncomfortable with his friend’s racist statements and behaviour, despite Cameron’s professed admiration for Black culture. As his discomfort grows, Khalil is left with a choice: accept this as “reality” or take a stand for what’s right, even if it costs him friendships.
Not talking About You portrays racism as it occurs amongst young Canadians today. It explores the impact on the target and on bystanders who have to decide how to react when they find a racist youth in their midst.Â
About the Author
Kevin heronJones is a youth basketball coach, author, journalist, actor, lecturer and award-winning performance poet. He lives in Milton, Ontario.
Reviews
"A compelling read for basketball fans with a powerful message about the persistence of racial bigotry."
An accessible work, ideal for starting discussions on navigating racial bias and stereotyping.
For those who find themselves witnessing racist behaviour, this book will expand their awareness of what a friend should be and what a friend should do. For those experiencing racism, this book offers them a way forward while acknowledging the courage and emotional effort required to stand up to their friends.
Kevin heronJones cuts right to the bone in this well-balanced novel.
Subjects (BISAC)
Subjects
Similar Titles
-
School Statue Showdown
When an Indigenous group demands the local schools name be changed, rifts are formed within the community and the legacies of who we honour from history are challenged.
$16.95, PaperbackInterest ages: 12-16Reading level: Grade 5Lexile Reading Level: 870L
The Hoop and the Harm
Author Jawara Pedican brings the vivid authenticity of lived experience in the basketball hotbed of West Indian Toronto to The Hoop and the Harm.
$16.95, PaperbackInterest ages: 13-18Reading level: Grade 4Lexile Reading Level: 810L
The Summer Between Us
Award-winning African Nova Scotian writer Andre Fenton’s third novel tackles contemporary social issues such as class difference and colourism in the Black community in this vibrant coming-of-age story.
$14.95, PaperbackInterest ages: 13-18Reading level: Grade 3