Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds

Review by Diane Schroeder

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You is a reimagining of Dr. Ibram X. Kendi’s Stamped from the Beginning.

Author Jason Reynolds provides historical context for the ingrained racism in America, exploring our history from the formation of the United States to the 21st century.

Despite his assertion that Stamped is “not a history book,” Reynolds invokes names and dates you will probably recognize. However, his primary argument reveals a deeper truth: to learn how we got to where we are today, we must learn about the past so that we can change the future.

Stamped takes Kendi’s work and makes it more accessible for younger readers. Although the book is geared towards teenagers, it is also great for adults: Reynolds speaks directly to the reader, and his sense of humor keeps the audience’s attention.

I would highly recommend this book and its accompanying audiobook, narrated by Reynolds. Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You is not only a good introduction to racism in America, but also a great conversation-starter for those who are more familiar with the topic. For further reading, check out Dr. Ibram X. Kendi’s Stamped from the Beginning.