Though fiction is our theme for Black History Month,
this thought-provoking book by rapper, poet and activist Akala made it onto
our list because it is so timely and important.
Part memoir, it has also been described as a polemic
with a good measure of history, sociology and geopolitics thrown in. Akala uses
his experience of growing up mixed race, poor and working class in the
1980s and 90s to illustrate the social and cultural inequalities that lie at
the heart of British education, government, law and order and other
institutions. He traces the roots of racism in Britain back to the Empire,
illustrates its absurdities and skilfully compares and contrasts current and
past racism in Britain with that which exists in the USA. In one of the most
powerful passages in the book, Akala (who freely admits to having used it in
his music in the past), presents a compelling argument against the use of the
‘n’ word in black culture which, in my opinion, should be an essential part of
any school’s anti-racism programme. He handles his heavy subject matter in a
deft and readable way and does not attempt to stifle his natural voice so do
expect robust language. This however, only serves to amplify his powerful message
and while it may be an uncomfortable read for some, I recommend this book very
highly.Suitable for Y9 and above.
Mrs Osafo
