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White Fragility: Why Understanding Racism Can Be So Hard for White People
A reimagining of the best-selling book that gives young adults the tools to ask questions, engage in dialogue, challenge their ways of thinking, and take action to create a more racially just world
"I was taught to treat everyone the same." "I don't see color." "My parents voted for Obama." When white people have the opportunity to think and talk about race and racism, they more often than not don't know how. In this adaptation of Dr. Robin DiAngelo's best-selling book White Fragility, anti-racist educators Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael explain the concept of systemic racism to young adult readers and how to recognize it in themselves and the world around them. Along the way, Williamson and Michael provide tools for taking action to challenge systems of inequity and racism as they move into adulthood. Throughout the book, readers will find the following: A dialogue between the adaptors that models anti-racist discussions Definitions of key termsPersonal stories from this multiracial teamDiscussion prompts to encourage readers to journal their reactions and feelingsIllustrations to help concepts of white fragility and systemic racism come alivePortraits of scholars and activists, including Carol Anderson, Ta-Nehisi Coates, and Ijeoma Oluo, whose work is amplified throughout Dr. DiAngelo's theory of white fragility.
"I was taught to treat everyone the same." "I don't see color." "My parents voted for Obama." When white people have the opportunity to think and talk about race and racism, they more often than not don't know how. In this adaptation of Dr. Robin DiAngelo's best-selling book White Fragility, anti-racist educators Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael explain the concept of systemic racism to young adult readers and how to recognize it in themselves and the world around them. Along the way, Williamson and Michael provide tools for taking action to challenge systems of inequity and racism as they move into adulthood. Throughout the book, readers will find the following: A dialogue between the adaptors that models anti-racist discussions Definitions of key termsPersonal stories from this multiracial teamDiscussion prompts to encourage readers to journal their reactions and feelingsIllustrations to help concepts of white fragility and systemic racism come alivePortraits of scholars and activists, including Carol Anderson, Ta-Nehisi Coates, and Ijeoma Oluo, whose work is amplified throughout Dr. DiAngelo's theory of white fragility.
280 pages, Hardcover
Published September 13, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
August 19, 2022
The best book/adaptation I've read on race as a white person so far!
Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael bring an important YA voice to Robin DiAngelo's "White Fragility". As a white person in my 20s, this approach really worked for me but anyone 18+ could and should read this. I listened to this and loved hearing each woman's unique voice. I would, however, recommend picking up the physical copy because each chapter ends with journal prompts and discussion questions. Almost like a workbook style.
This answered a lot of questions I had and gave validation to being uncomfortable. Being uncomfortable is good! It means you are accepting and learning a new set of rules that didn't apply to you before - like opening your eyes to systemic racism. Race should be talked about and explored, not hidden away in an attempt to be "polite" or "non-confrontational". This book handled hard topics with grace and provided context and ways to do better as an anti-racist.
While this book can be read by all racial groups, the last section of the book is focused on how white people can change their fragility into agility. As someone who wants to be anti-racist but has a long way to go and a lot more to learn, this was a helpful step forward.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC! An easy 5 star listen.
Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael bring an important YA voice to Robin DiAngelo's "White Fragility". As a white person in my 20s, this approach really worked for me but anyone 18+ could and should read this. I listened to this and loved hearing each woman's unique voice. I would, however, recommend picking up the physical copy because each chapter ends with journal prompts and discussion questions. Almost like a workbook style.
This answered a lot of questions I had and gave validation to being uncomfortable. Being uncomfortable is good! It means you are accepting and learning a new set of rules that didn't apply to you before - like opening your eyes to systemic racism. Race should be talked about and explored, not hidden away in an attempt to be "polite" or "non-confrontational". This book handled hard topics with grace and provided context and ways to do better as an anti-racist.
While this book can be read by all racial groups, the last section of the book is focused on how white people can change their fragility into agility. As someone who wants to be anti-racist but has a long way to go and a lot more to learn, this was a helpful step forward.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC! An easy 5 star listen.
June 24, 2025
I wish everyone would read this book. It’s absolutely chock full of new ideas, great examples, clear explanations and endless food for thought. As someone who is trying to be a better ally and a more active anti-racist, reading this book is invaluable.
September 3, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this ARC audiobook.
Description from NetGalley:
When white people have the opportunity to think and talk about race and racism, they more often than not don’t know how.
In this adaptation of Dr. Robin DiAngelo’s bestselling book White Fragility, anti-racist educators Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael explain the concept of systemic racism to young adults and how to recognize it in themselves and the world around them. Along the way, Williamson and Michael provide tools for taking action to challenge systems of inequity and racism as they move into adulthood.
Throughout the book, listeners will find the following:
· A dialogue between the adaptors that models anti-racist discussions
· Definitions of key terms
· Personal stories from this multiracial team
· Discussion prompts to encourage listeners to journal their reactions and feelings
· Illustrations to help concepts of white fragility and systemic racism come alive
· Portraits of scholars and activists, including Carol Anderson, Ta-Nehisi Coates, and Ijeoma Oluo, whose work is amplified throughout Dr. DiAngelo’s theory of white fragility.
I am going to start by saying that I have not read the adult version of this book; however, after listening to this I think I need to read the adult version (since I am an adult myself). It gave me a lot to think about, both about myself and those around me. The information was presented well and thoughtfully for its target audience. There were some nuanced concepts that were structured and distilled very well. Each chapter had good thought exercises/homework for the reader to do to fully explore each chapter’s topic.
Overall: 5/5
Description from NetGalley:
When white people have the opportunity to think and talk about race and racism, they more often than not don’t know how.
In this adaptation of Dr. Robin DiAngelo’s bestselling book White Fragility, anti-racist educators Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael explain the concept of systemic racism to young adults and how to recognize it in themselves and the world around them. Along the way, Williamson and Michael provide tools for taking action to challenge systems of inequity and racism as they move into adulthood.
Throughout the book, listeners will find the following:
· A dialogue between the adaptors that models anti-racist discussions
· Definitions of key terms
· Personal stories from this multiracial team
· Discussion prompts to encourage listeners to journal their reactions and feelings
· Illustrations to help concepts of white fragility and systemic racism come alive
· Portraits of scholars and activists, including Carol Anderson, Ta-Nehisi Coates, and Ijeoma Oluo, whose work is amplified throughout Dr. DiAngelo’s theory of white fragility.
I am going to start by saying that I have not read the adult version of this book; however, after listening to this I think I need to read the adult version (since I am an adult myself). It gave me a lot to think about, both about myself and those around me. The information was presented well and thoughtfully for its target audience. There were some nuanced concepts that were structured and distilled very well. Each chapter had good thought exercises/homework for the reader to do to fully explore each chapter’s topic.
Overall: 5/5
September 23, 2022
I think this book was crafted and adapted well from its adult version. I can see this being very useful and informative as a family read. I especially enjoyed the activities and reflection questions included. Well done!
June 7, 2023
this book changed my view of the world so drastically. 🌟 the way toni and ali explained each concept so well. definitely a book i will rec to everyone and go back to many times!!!
September 10, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
To be honest I have not read the adult version of White Fragility but after listening to this adaptation for Young Adults I will be adding this to my list.
I would consider this an excellent resource for any high school or above student. There are topics I’m not entirely comfortable with my middle schooler reading (example discussing Chanel Miller’s rape). However, there are *several* chapters I would be comfortable with, and even had them listen to. There are prompts for journal entries and multiple references to illustrations that I would suggest getting the actual hard copy.
Some things you can expect in this book:
· A dialogue that models anti-racist discussions
· Definitions of key terms (I found the race section incredible eye-opening)
· Personal stories from the multiracial team of authors
· Discussion prompts to encourage readers to journal their own thoughts
To be honest I have not read the adult version of White Fragility but after listening to this adaptation for Young Adults I will be adding this to my list.
I would consider this an excellent resource for any high school or above student. There are topics I’m not entirely comfortable with my middle schooler reading (example discussing Chanel Miller’s rape). However, there are *several* chapters I would be comfortable with, and even had them listen to. There are prompts for journal entries and multiple references to illustrations that I would suggest getting the actual hard copy.
Some things you can expect in this book:
· A dialogue that models anti-racist discussions
· Definitions of key terms (I found the race section incredible eye-opening)
· Personal stories from the multiracial team of authors
· Discussion prompts to encourage readers to journal their own thoughts
October 6, 2022
I think if I hadn't read the adult version of the book I would have fully loved this book. This book is written quite differently than the original but it absolutely works for the intended audience. I listened to the audiobook and the authors narrate it and do an excellent job. However this book should be read and discussed chapter by chapter so I think reading the print version is overall the better choice on format. There are also lists and other items that should be bookmarked/highlighted and returned to in the future which is much more easily done with a print version. A valuable book to be used with teens.
December 3, 2022
My friends Toni and Ali did a great job adapting this book for young people, and I'm not just saying that because they are my friends. If you have white young adults in your life, this is a great book to listen to with them or to read with them. Every chapter ends with discussion questions or activities.
I listened to this and it was awesome, though I will also read it because I need to slow it down more than I did while listening.
I listened to this and it was awesome, though I will also read it because I need to slow it down more than I did while listening.
August 22, 2022
Absolutely buying a copy for my 11 year old! He's biracial in a mostly white school. I foresee him struggling to understand situations and explain things to himself, his friends or his teachers and hope this gives him needed tools.
While the focus of this book is growing in being an anti-racist, and it hits that mark, it contains solid advice that is applicable along many avenues of life.
The advice I most appreciated is accepting feedback and when defensive, sitting with that and considering why it's making me defensive. Considering my own hold ups and exploring them in a thoughtful way can help be continue to grow, especially when I hit a wall that I struggle to see or overcome.
While I'm wanting this book to equip my son with skills/tools I know it can do the same for me as I continue to learn.
While the focus of this book is growing in being an anti-racist, and it hits that mark, it contains solid advice that is applicable along many avenues of life.
The advice I most appreciated is accepting feedback and when defensive, sitting with that and considering why it's making me defensive. Considering my own hold ups and exploring them in a thoughtful way can help be continue to grow, especially when I hit a wall that I struggle to see or overcome.
While I'm wanting this book to equip my son with skills/tools I know it can do the same for me as I continue to learn.
November 14, 2024
4.0 stars
I was born in the mid-1950’s. The first time we went to Florida, around 1962, we went to a restaurant in Miami Beach Florida that had signs on the front door “Whites Only” and I almost used the wrong water fountain. A beautiful old black lady “That’s not for you. Your water fountain is over there.” I had learned enough to understand that the sign she pointed to said “Blacks.” Confused, I told her, we all drink out of the same fountain at school?”
Over the decades I thought I was doing well. But like this book points out, I had much to learn. Two of my co-workers befriended me and answered all my questions. They also told me truths I never thought to ask. So I did improve. Most importantly, I grew to love my co-workers.
Today, this book taught me there is always something to learn. I found this book to be instructional in a positive way. I will never check the “Caucasian” or “white” button on an application without remembering the lessons today.
Highly recommend.
I was born in the mid-1950’s. The first time we went to Florida, around 1962, we went to a restaurant in Miami Beach Florida that had signs on the front door “Whites Only” and I almost used the wrong water fountain. A beautiful old black lady “That’s not for you. Your water fountain is over there.” I had learned enough to understand that the sign she pointed to said “Blacks.” Confused, I told her, we all drink out of the same fountain at school?”
Over the decades I thought I was doing well. But like this book points out, I had much to learn. Two of my co-workers befriended me and answered all my questions. They also told me truths I never thought to ask. So I did improve. Most importantly, I grew to love my co-workers.
Today, this book taught me there is always something to learn. I found this book to be instructional in a positive way. I will never check the “Caucasian” or “white” button on an application without remembering the lessons today.
Highly recommend.
November 22, 2023
We read this at work and while I understand the concept, I hate that it centers white people and how we experience this. I think people would be better served reading Four Hundred Souls or Black AF History to actually understand the DILBERATE creation of racism in this country. Help people develop that empathy.
October 8, 2022
This book is really solid. I prefer it to what I remember of the original edition (by DiAngelo, for adults).
White Fragility is the elephant in the room: There are some white people get very vocally defensive when racism comes up/want to deny its existence. DiAngelo, Williamson, and Michael explain in matter-of-fact, "reason but not an excuse" terms how many white people have been taught a narrative about racism very different from the reality.
We do not talk about this enough: Good people can be taught bad things, but good people question the things they were taught. (Teenagers question EVERYTHING you say if you claim them on your taxes, but I digress...)
White Fragility is here to tell teens how to gently challenge this narrative, making it clear that anti-racism is a lifelong journey.
The YA version of White Fragility is vastly improved by:
- DiAngelo collaborated with Black academics, predictably giving a more robust picture of the landscape of racism in the US and stronger strategies to navigate:
- Author's note at the beginning of the book telling the reader that they may be uncomfortable with the contents of the book;
- Prompts for the reader to stop and journal/reflect on their own experiences and opinions;
- White saviorism is addressed (we need more of this!);
- Williamson, Michael, and DiAngelo (projecting "that cool teacher you can talk to" personas) have call-outs where they share personal anecdotes and experiences that are very relatable.
Without being didactic, throughout the book it's made very clear to the reader that we all have responsibility to continually strive to learn and question assumptions. In general, there is a lot of solid life/interpersonal advice in this book that applies outside of antiracism.
White people need to learn how to be anti-racist and lift up BIPOC voices in that discussion.
BIPOC people can try to educate misguided white people, but you have the right to disengage or protect your own feelings.
This is really 4.5 stars: My only ding is the section on discussing race on social media - always a minefield with teenagers. It was fantastic advice for adults, and had most of the safety/impact of social media warnings for kids. The book misses an opportunity to point out that certain people can get very angry if white allies post anti-racist comments on social media and that it's OK to step away, block users, or even engage a trusted adult if things get out of hand.
(As an adult, I've received physical threats for posting anti-racist material on a private social media platform. It was ugly, and not everyone has the connections to defuse as quickly as I did.)
That said, I'd give this book to BIPOC teens/young adults who want to understand how to navigate covert racism and advocate for themselves; to white teens/young adults who want effective tools to be a good ally/"upstander"... and honestly to dinosaurs in their 30s/40s/etc who want to learn more but found DiAngelo's original text too dense.
White Fragility is the elephant in the room: There are some white people get very vocally defensive when racism comes up/want to deny its existence. DiAngelo, Williamson, and Michael explain in matter-of-fact, "reason but not an excuse" terms how many white people have been taught a narrative about racism very different from the reality.
We do not talk about this enough: Good people can be taught bad things, but good people question the things they were taught. (Teenagers question EVERYTHING you say if you claim them on your taxes, but I digress...)
White Fragility is here to tell teens how to gently challenge this narrative, making it clear that anti-racism is a lifelong journey.
The YA version of White Fragility is vastly improved by:
- DiAngelo collaborated with Black academics, predictably giving a more robust picture of the landscape of racism in the US and stronger strategies to navigate:
- Author's note at the beginning of the book telling the reader that they may be uncomfortable with the contents of the book;
- Prompts for the reader to stop and journal/reflect on their own experiences and opinions;
- White saviorism is addressed (we need more of this!);
- Williamson, Michael, and DiAngelo (projecting "that cool teacher you can talk to" personas) have call-outs where they share personal anecdotes and experiences that are very relatable.
Without being didactic, throughout the book it's made very clear to the reader that we all have responsibility to continually strive to learn and question assumptions. In general, there is a lot of solid life/interpersonal advice in this book that applies outside of antiracism.
White people need to learn how to be anti-racist and lift up BIPOC voices in that discussion.
BIPOC people can try to educate misguided white people, but you have the right to disengage or protect your own feelings.
This is really 4.5 stars: My only ding is the section on discussing race on social media - always a minefield with teenagers. It was fantastic advice for adults, and had most of the safety/impact of social media warnings for kids. The book misses an opportunity to point out that certain people can get very angry if white allies post anti-racist comments on social media and that it's OK to step away, block users, or even engage a trusted adult if things get out of hand.
(As an adult, I've received physical threats for posting anti-racist material on a private social media platform. It was ugly, and not everyone has the connections to defuse as quickly as I did.)
That said, I'd give this book to BIPOC teens/young adults who want to understand how to navigate covert racism and advocate for themselves; to white teens/young adults who want effective tools to be a good ally/"upstander"... and honestly to dinosaurs in their 30s/40s/etc who want to learn more but found DiAngelo's original text too dense.
December 23, 2022
5 Stars - Audiobook - I definitely need to read the original version now. I read this YA version because it was available on Scribd. This was able to break down the complex and emotional subject of racism and the role of white fragility in perpetuating racism in our society. The few things that clicked with me and will continue to mull over:
1. Modern racism is not usually intentional. Just because someone didn’t intend for a statement to be racist doesn’t mean it isn’t. Raising this isn’t an attack on the person themselves but is meant to bring awareness to the impact of their words.
2. We need to challenge these speakers in order to be anti-racist. Staying silent perpetuates the problem.
3. So called “Colour-blindness” doesn’t exist. To ignore race means to let racism continue. You need to be able to talk about a problem in order to address it.
4. Race is a social construct, but the effects of racism are real, and the problem is systemic.
5. White privilege is not about class. It is about being born into a system where by default, we are given more opportunities and our race is reflected back at us positively. By default, we don’t need to worry about being accused of stealing (if we decline a receipt and bag) or that we will be misunderstood or harmed when encountering cops or far right white neighbourhoods. Etc. And the fact that it is easy to take this societal privilege for granted because our reality is our ‘normal’.
6. White fragility is almost a form of bullying, where the person who raises the issue is made to feel bad about raising the issue in the first place, in order to keep the problem silent.
7. We do not need to feel sorry or guilty. We were born into a society where inequalities already exist, but it is our responsibility to see and acknowledge the difference. And hopefully change. White people need to be able listen to POC in order to better see examples of racism.
8. “Bias is implicit and unconscious. I don’t expect to be aware of mine without a lot of ongoing effort and help from others… I am not just an individual, I am also a member of a racial group and I bring my groups history with me. History matters. Nothing exempts me from the forces of racism.”
1. Modern racism is not usually intentional. Just because someone didn’t intend for a statement to be racist doesn’t mean it isn’t. Raising this isn’t an attack on the person themselves but is meant to bring awareness to the impact of their words.
2. We need to challenge these speakers in order to be anti-racist. Staying silent perpetuates the problem.
3. So called “Colour-blindness” doesn’t exist. To ignore race means to let racism continue. You need to be able to talk about a problem in order to address it.
4. Race is a social construct, but the effects of racism are real, and the problem is systemic.
5. White privilege is not about class. It is about being born into a system where by default, we are given more opportunities and our race is reflected back at us positively. By default, we don’t need to worry about being accused of stealing (if we decline a receipt and bag) or that we will be misunderstood or harmed when encountering cops or far right white neighbourhoods. Etc. And the fact that it is easy to take this societal privilege for granted because our reality is our ‘normal’.
6. White fragility is almost a form of bullying, where the person who raises the issue is made to feel bad about raising the issue in the first place, in order to keep the problem silent.
7. We do not need to feel sorry or guilty. We were born into a society where inequalities already exist, but it is our responsibility to see and acknowledge the difference. And hopefully change. White people need to be able listen to POC in order to better see examples of racism.
8. “Bias is implicit and unconscious. I don’t expect to be aware of mine without a lot of ongoing effort and help from others… I am not just an individual, I am also a member of a racial group and I bring my groups history with me. History matters. Nothing exempts me from the forces of racism.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2022
A very open and honest dialogue between black and white authors as an adaptation of the adult book White Fragility. Toni Graves Williamson does a great job of explaining times when she and other people of varying colors and races might feel less than, and how those of the dominant race may often treat them. Many are in such a hurry to avoid being called racist, that they react in an abrupt or overly-fragile way to such an accusation. This book feels like it steps back from the personal attacks of racism, and holds an honest racial discussion that acknowledges we all hold prejudices, which lead us to discriminate, but that generally speaking, racism itself is a systemic problem throughout a society, government, etc. When we can make such distinctions, we can step back and talk with one another without fragility (or an abrupt over-reaction to accusations regarding race) about times when actions or issues present a racist take for those around us. I very much enjoyed considering the concepts of front-stage vs back-stage racism.
The leaders of the church we belong to have tasked us with rooting out racism in our lives. While this is a weighty challenge across our society, with systems we've all inherited, I felt this book was very carefully crafted toward young adults and made comfortable in an honest way. Studying these concepts of understanding racism is a pro-active step in not just avoiding racism on a personal level, but working to remove so many of the barriers that exist systemically in our society and culture. It is not just enough to say, "I'm not racist." We all need to evaluate how we've gotten here and where we want to be, and that requires honest racial discussion. This book is a great step.
Read as a nomination in the non-fiction book award category as a panelist for Children's and Young Adult Bloggers' Literary Awards (Cybils Awards).
The leaders of the church we belong to have tasked us with rooting out racism in our lives. While this is a weighty challenge across our society, with systems we've all inherited, I felt this book was very carefully crafted toward young adults and made comfortable in an honest way. Studying these concepts of understanding racism is a pro-active step in not just avoiding racism on a personal level, but working to remove so many of the barriers that exist systemically in our society and culture. It is not just enough to say, "I'm not racist." We all need to evaluate how we've gotten here and where we want to be, and that requires honest racial discussion. This book is a great step.
Read as a nomination in the non-fiction book award category as a panelist for Children's and Young Adult Bloggers' Literary Awards (Cybils Awards).
August 22, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and the authors for this free audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
I’ll start by saying I have not read the original version of White Fragility so I am not able to offer comparisons between the two versions. I know that the original version has faced a lot of criticism and I cannot speak to how similar or different these two versions are. From what I can tell, there were significant changes made as the two women who adapted this book added a lot of dialogue, personal stories, and specific examples geared towards young people that I do not believe were in the original version.
With all of that said, I really enjoyed this audiobook and felt that it offered a lot of specific and actionable advice for young adults in a grace-filled and age-appropriate way. I loved that Toni and Ali provided lots of explanation around terminology they were using so listeners/readers wouldn’t be confused and they also explained a good bit of historical context to back up their positions on certain topics.
There is always going to be lots of nuance and differing opinions when it comes to discussions of race but I feel this book set out to help people effectively have these discussions so we can move toward a better and more inclusive world. The discussion itself and then the questions at the end of each chapter helped achieve this goal. I highly recommend this book!
I’ll start by saying I have not read the original version of White Fragility so I am not able to offer comparisons between the two versions. I know that the original version has faced a lot of criticism and I cannot speak to how similar or different these two versions are. From what I can tell, there were significant changes made as the two women who adapted this book added a lot of dialogue, personal stories, and specific examples geared towards young people that I do not believe were in the original version.
With all of that said, I really enjoyed this audiobook and felt that it offered a lot of specific and actionable advice for young adults in a grace-filled and age-appropriate way. I loved that Toni and Ali provided lots of explanation around terminology they were using so listeners/readers wouldn’t be confused and they also explained a good bit of historical context to back up their positions on certain topics.
There is always going to be lots of nuance and differing opinions when it comes to discussions of race but I feel this book set out to help people effectively have these discussions so we can move toward a better and more inclusive world. The discussion itself and then the questions at the end of each chapter helped achieve this goal. I highly recommend this book!
September 8, 2022
This book took the original work of White Fragility by Dr. Robin DiAngelo and broke it down for a different audience. The authors, Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael, did a great job of taking a topic that is likely a new idea for most of their audience and explaining it in an approachable and personable manner.
The book relies less on information dumping and more on providing nuggets for thought and examples of real life experiences (mostly those of the authors) to foster a space for open discussion.
There are multiple journal prompts for continued self-growth as well as small group prompts for growth amongst peers.
While it is clear that this book was adapted with high school students in mind, it is important to note that this adaptation also makes the topic (and the content of the original book) more accessible and approachable to more people than just young adults. This is even more true with the addition of an audiobook medium. I recommend this book to anyone who may feel overwhelmed by the original book or similar books on the topic.
On the technical side of things, there were multiple times throughout the audiobook that the two narrators were talking over one another briefly when their narrations shifted.
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael, via NetGalley. An advanced reader's copy of this audiobook was provided to me via NetGalley by Dreamscape Media in exchange for an honest review.
The book relies less on information dumping and more on providing nuggets for thought and examples of real life experiences (mostly those of the authors) to foster a space for open discussion.
There are multiple journal prompts for continued self-growth as well as small group prompts for growth amongst peers.
While it is clear that this book was adapted with high school students in mind, it is important to note that this adaptation also makes the topic (and the content of the original book) more accessible and approachable to more people than just young adults. This is even more true with the addition of an audiobook medium. I recommend this book to anyone who may feel overwhelmed by the original book or similar books on the topic.
On the technical side of things, there were multiple times throughout the audiobook that the two narrators were talking over one another briefly when their narrations shifted.
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael, via NetGalley. An advanced reader's copy of this audiobook was provided to me via NetGalley by Dreamscape Media in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2022
"Race is made up, but racism is real."
"If race isn't real, why can't we stop talking about it?"
"Even through race is a made up concept, racism is a real phenomenon that has a significant impact on people's lives. We cannot change it if we do not talk about it."
"In this adaptation of Dr. Robin DiAngelo's best-selling book White Fragility, anti-racist educators Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael explain the concept of systemic racism to young adult readers and how to recognize it in themselves and the world around them. Along the way, Williamson and Michael provide tools for taking action to challenge systems of inequity and racism as they move into adulthood."
I read once that, upon feeling defensive, the brain triggers similar instincts to those present during physical danger.
Fight. Flight. Freeze.
When we're made aware of systems and behaviours that go against our current thinking, beliefs, and perceptions of ourselves, it is 100% natural to NOT TAKE IT WELL.
We self-justify.
We change the subject.
We don't know what to say.
Knowing this is a powerful tool support changing your behaviour and thought patterns, and moving towards anti-racism.
This book, with its history, helpful homework assignments, and practical examples, is here to help.
9.5/10
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this excellent ARC.
"If race isn't real, why can't we stop talking about it?"
"Even through race is a made up concept, racism is a real phenomenon that has a significant impact on people's lives. We cannot change it if we do not talk about it."
"In this adaptation of Dr. Robin DiAngelo's best-selling book White Fragility, anti-racist educators Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael explain the concept of systemic racism to young adult readers and how to recognize it in themselves and the world around them. Along the way, Williamson and Michael provide tools for taking action to challenge systems of inequity and racism as they move into adulthood."
I read once that, upon feeling defensive, the brain triggers similar instincts to those present during physical danger.
Fight. Flight. Freeze.
When we're made aware of systems and behaviours that go against our current thinking, beliefs, and perceptions of ourselves, it is 100% natural to NOT TAKE IT WELL.
We self-justify.
We change the subject.
We don't know what to say.
Knowing this is a powerful tool support changing your behaviour and thought patterns, and moving towards anti-racism.
This book, with its history, helpful homework assignments, and practical examples, is here to help.
9.5/10
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this excellent ARC.
September 25, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the advance audio version of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Friends asked me to join discussion groups about the original White Fragility book. We had marched and protested together, for women’s rights and BLM. As a brownish, ethnically ambiguous woman, I declined—but I felt bad about doing so.
I was delighted to see this title and to receive an ARC of it. I learned a lot from it, about myself and others, and why certain things had bothered me, though I couldn’t quite put my finger on why.
I learned more about what white supremacy means, both historically and in this day and age—and that it’s not just about extremists, but something far more insidious. I learned what performative activism is, and why some friends are reluctant to participate in vigils and marches.
I know this book is intended for young adults, but I still learned a lot!
I loved that the audiobook was narrated by the women who adapted it, who very clearly gave their own perspectives. As I’ve said, I really learned a lot from it! But I hope schools buy the hard copy and have kids do all of the activities in groups. And I hope every middle and high school library in the country gets at least one copy of this book—especially at the schools that have at least one parent complaining about it.
Friends asked me to join discussion groups about the original White Fragility book. We had marched and protested together, for women’s rights and BLM. As a brownish, ethnically ambiguous woman, I declined—but I felt bad about doing so.
I was delighted to see this title and to receive an ARC of it. I learned a lot from it, about myself and others, and why certain things had bothered me, though I couldn’t quite put my finger on why.
I learned more about what white supremacy means, both historically and in this day and age—and that it’s not just about extremists, but something far more insidious. I learned what performative activism is, and why some friends are reluctant to participate in vigils and marches.
I know this book is intended for young adults, but I still learned a lot!
I loved that the audiobook was narrated by the women who adapted it, who very clearly gave their own perspectives. As I’ve said, I really learned a lot from it! But I hope schools buy the hard copy and have kids do all of the activities in groups. And I hope every middle and high school library in the country gets at least one copy of this book—especially at the schools that have at least one parent complaining about it.
November 6, 2022
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced reader’s copy audiobook. I've read the White Fragility book by Robin DeAngelo, but I have to say I think I might like this book even better.
Let me start off with saying that I am 29 years old, so not necessarily in the category of Young Adult, but I really enjoyed the authors' adaptation in that they used the most intuitive metaphors, stories, and analogies to describe the very complex world of systemic racism, white privilege, binary thinking, bias, and white fragility. I absolutely loved how they broke down each of these topics in such easy-to-understand ways.
I really wish I had a book like this to read when I was in high school or early college. It would have been a useful guide to help understand cultures and perspectives outside of my own sheltered one. I highly recommend this adapted book not just for young adults, but for anyone looking to be challenged in their worldview and learn new ways of talking about race. Kudos to Toni and Ali for making this such a concise summary packed with insight and new perspectives. A must-read!
P.S. I really enjoyed the voices in the audiobook but it was a little too slow of a pace for me so I sped it up to 1.75 speed.
Let me start off with saying that I am 29 years old, so not necessarily in the category of Young Adult, but I really enjoyed the authors' adaptation in that they used the most intuitive metaphors, stories, and analogies to describe the very complex world of systemic racism, white privilege, binary thinking, bias, and white fragility. I absolutely loved how they broke down each of these topics in such easy-to-understand ways.
I really wish I had a book like this to read when I was in high school or early college. It would have been a useful guide to help understand cultures and perspectives outside of my own sheltered one. I highly recommend this adapted book not just for young adults, but for anyone looking to be challenged in their worldview and learn new ways of talking about race. Kudos to Toni and Ali for making this such a concise summary packed with insight and new perspectives. A must-read!
P.S. I really enjoyed the voices in the audiobook but it was a little too slow of a pace for me so I sped it up to 1.75 speed.
November 11, 2022
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced reader’s copy audiobook. I've read the White Fragility book by Robin DeAngelo, but I have to say I think I might like this book even better.
Let me start off with saying that I am 29 years old, so not necessarily in the category of Young Adult, but I really enjoyed the authors' adaptation in that they used the most intuitive metaphors, stories, and analogies to describe the very complex world of systemic racism, white privilege, binary thinking, bias, and white fragility. I absolutely loved how they broke down each of these topics in such easy-to-understand ways.
I really wish I had a book like this to read when I was in high school or early college. It would have been a useful guide to help understand cultures and perspectives outside of my own sheltered one. I highly recommend this adapted book not just for young adults, but for anyone looking to be challenged in their worldview and learn new ways of talking about race. Kudos to Toni and Ali for making this such a concise summary packed with insight and new perspectives. A must-read!
P.S. I really enjoyed the voices in the audiobook but it was a little too slow of a pace for me so I sped it up to 1.75 speed.
Let me start off with saying that I am 29 years old, so not necessarily in the category of Young Adult, but I really enjoyed the authors' adaptation in that they used the most intuitive metaphors, stories, and analogies to describe the very complex world of systemic racism, white privilege, binary thinking, bias, and white fragility. I absolutely loved how they broke down each of these topics in such easy-to-understand ways.
I really wish I had a book like this to read when I was in high school or early college. It would have been a useful guide to help understand cultures and perspectives outside of my own sheltered one. I highly recommend this adapted book not just for young adults, but for anyone looking to be challenged in their worldview and learn new ways of talking about race. Kudos to Toni and Ali for making this such a concise summary packed with insight and new perspectives. A must-read!
P.S. I really enjoyed the voices in the audiobook but it was a little too slow of a pace for me so I sped it up to 1.75 speed.
June 19, 2025
I accidentally checked out the young adults edition from the library- but I’m so glad I decided to read it! Honest and blunt, but written in a way that will help guide my parenting decisions related to racism. It also gave a great perspective in regards to having uncomfortable conversations (as a white person) and acknowledging what white privilege actually means. The book taught me new tools and strategies I can start implementing - today- to foster an anti-racist life.
A quote that will stick with me: “an authentic community with one of the other means that we acknowledge a shared reality. We recognize how we have been divided in a racial class structure that none of us asked for”
Nobody asked for this, but we have to stand up for the society we want, not the one filled with systemic racism.
A quote that will stick with me: “an authentic community with one of the other means that we acknowledge a shared reality. We recognize how we have been divided in a racial class structure that none of us asked for”
Nobody asked for this, but we have to stand up for the society we want, not the one filled with systemic racism.
October 12, 2022
I have and will continue to recommend this book to anyone who will listen. This was incredibly eye opening, I was able to action some of the items and themes this book talks about immediately in both my personal and work life. I work with several POC and asked them if we could have some discussions, they welcomed my questions and thoughts and even thanked me for having the conversation with them, which is also what the book discusses. I hope people will continue to read and learn from this book. Just in case the authors read these reviews, thank you so much for writing it, each view point was very interesting, relatable and helpful. The resources at the back of the book are all on my too read if they are not already on my read shelves.
September 19, 2022
I'd like to thank Dreamscape Media on Netgalley for providing me with an audio arc.
I think this was a fantastic book. The narration was done very well and was narrated by the authors. I think this is a great starting point for teens to learn more about having discussions on race. I love the discussions that took place in the book. It encourages readers to think more about their positions and to challenge the ideas that they have. As well as the initial feelings that they get when they have they have their stances challenged. The discussions are very nuanced. I really appreciated the amount of care that went into a creating this book. I highly recommend this book.
I think this was a fantastic book. The narration was done very well and was narrated by the authors. I think this is a great starting point for teens to learn more about having discussions on race. I love the discussions that took place in the book. It encourages readers to think more about their positions and to challenge the ideas that they have. As well as the initial feelings that they get when they have they have their stances challenged. The discussions are very nuanced. I really appreciated the amount of care that went into a creating this book. I highly recommend this book.
September 22, 2022
I read the original White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo and thought this was an excellent adaptation for young adults by Toni Graves Williamson and Ali Michael. The book is easy to understand and covers hard topics. I also appreciated that it included information and stories while also focusing on ACTION and accountability. The audiobook is well done (with some minor issues in the last chapter, but it did not affect my rating) and I liked the book included reference materials to BIPOC authors' research.
4.5 rounded up
Thank you to Dreamscape Media, the authors and NetGalley for providing an audio copy to review!
4.5 rounded up
Thank you to Dreamscape Media, the authors and NetGalley for providing an audio copy to review!
May 23, 2023
This is an excellent book. I listened to the audiobook version and recommend it, as the two narrators add nuance to the stories they tell. Although I'm in my mid-sixties, I thoroughly appreciated the youth version and its thoughtful reflections at the end of each chapter. This was a book that spoke to me in a frank manner, yet in an invitational way that allowed me to learn. I had many, many cringeworthy moments where I heard my own white fragility, sometimes word for word, and I learned to open up and learn from it, rather than just becoming defensive and walking away. I learned so much and will keep on reading more. The Sum of Us is next on my list.
January 12, 2024
Probably 3.5 would be more accurate, but decided to round up - I feel like I would have enjoyed this more if I read the hard copy vs. listening to the audiobook. I do think the book does a great job tackling tough topics, and I love how there are opportunities to help discuss at the end of each chapter. Books like these will hopefully go a long way in erasing the damage done by the “don’t talk about race, religion, or politics” thinking that has gone on so for long that it has compounded the problem. I would love to eventually check out the original book also.
July 9, 2023
This was a great informative read that leaves you with conversations to take with you. I really liked the questions at the end of each chapter and being able to reflect on any patterns I was seeing. A lot of these conversations are uncomfortable yet necessary and the author reminded us that being uncomfortable isn't a reason to not have the important conversations and give voices to those who don't have their own in every space.
July 16, 2024
I struggled to read this book and to try to own up to so many of the frailties that are noted. I wanted to think that I would never make a black person feel unseen or say hurtful things to belittle them. But reading this opened my eyes to all the unconscious things I do every day. I hope I will be better at spotting my ignorance and be a better mother-in-law, grandmother and acquaintance to these black people in my life.
August 7, 2025
I cannot BEGIN to explain the irony of racism in this book.... For anyone that gives book a positive review, I have a question for you.
Would you give it a glowing review if the race were changed to another race? I do not care what the author's race is... this book is racist and should not be geared towards adolescents.
Would you give it a glowing review if the race were changed to another race? I do not care what the author's race is... this book is racist and should not be geared towards adolescents.
September 7, 2022
The last chapter was cut off whenever Toni was talking so I'm not sure on anything she said. The book itself definitely shead light on white fragility. I feel like it didn't go in depth too much so it's a good starting point to help open a young adults eyes to racism.
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