Esperanza Rising: one young girl's journey through the hardships of the Great Depression

Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan is a coming of age story set during the Great Depression. Esperanza had a great life on her family’s ranch in Aguascalientes, Mexico. She wanted nothing: fancy dresses, parties and servants. Until a series of tragic events forces Esperanza and her mother to flee to California. Along with their former servants, they settle in a camp for Mexican farm workers. Esperanza isn’t prepared for the hard labor, financial struggles and the sudden prejudice she experiences, especially from other Mexicans. She has some hard lessons to learn. When Mama becomes ill, Esperanza finds the strength and determination to rise above the circumstances and a new hope for their lives. 

I first saw this book many years ago and have always wanted to read it. But I had forgotten about it until my oldest daughter read in school this past year. As she talked with me about the book, I was once again intrigued to read it. Inspired by her grandmother’s story of life during the Great Depression, Ms. Munoz Ryan writes a story about faith, hope, and survival against all odds. At a time when everyone was looking for work and coming to California, Esperanza saw the harsh realities of life outside the privilege she was accustomed to. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and discussed it further with my daughter. I highly recommend Esperanza Rising. 

Esperanza Rising is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Good White Racist: interesting premise but doesn't apply to all white people

Good White Racist?: Confronting Your Role in Racial Injustice by Kerry Connelly is a book “by a white person for white people.” A good white racist is defined as “a well-intentioned person of European descent who is nonetheless complicit in a culture of systemic racism.” It is a white person who would acknowledges that racism is evil but stays silent against racism rather than confront injustices and racism. According to Ms. Connelly, most white Americans are obsessed with two things: defending their own inherent goodness and maintaining their comfort levels. So, to be a racist, one must be openly hateful and discriminatory; however, Ms. Connelly sets out to show that being racist is more than saying racial slurs to be an accomplice in America’s inequality. In Good White Racist?, Ms. Connelly exposes how she feels white people participate in, benefit from, and unknowingly continue racism, regardless of their best intentions. Using examples from history, sociology, psychology, education and economics as well as personal experiences, Ms. Connelly shows how racism still thrives in the American society. She attacks and counters the common defense statements that many white American would make. Each chapter ends with an Active Learning section to Learn, Think and Act for further discussion and contemplation. Certified as a life coach, Ms. Connelly, is the author of the “no nonsense Jersey girl, JESUS blog and host of podcast White on White” and currently pursuing a Master’s in Divinity at the Christian Theological Seminary. Are you a Good White Racist? If so, how can you help stop the system of inequality in America?

Good White Racist? is a hard book to read. Ms. Connelly doesn’t pull any punches and hits right where most white Americans feel comfortable and safe. Designed to make the white readers uncomfortable, I was prepared for those feelings. And sometimes she hit the nail on its head, and I had to nod and agree, yes, that happens and yes, I do know people who act the ways she describes. However, I don’t agree with all her statements; however, I know she would probably write off my comments because I am white and another example of a white person pushing aside the issue. There are parts I feel she has written to minorities to show that she, as a white Christian, truly understands which misses the mark if it is a book for white people, why would a person of color even read it? I also didn’t like the fact that she curses in the book. At one point, she assumes the white person reading the book would be more upset at the curse word than the statement itself. I do not feel that authors need to curse in order to make a statement impactful. There are better ways to emphasize the horror of a statement without throwing the F-bomb. Plus, I hate slang. I don’t care who uses it and the author likes to show how hip she is by using slang and, to me, it cheapens her mission. I do like that she challenges the “I don’t see race. I am color-blind” statement of many whites to show how non-racist they are. I applaud Ms. Connelly’s attempts to shine a bright light on the issue; however, I feel she has ignored the growing number of interracial families. Overall, Good White Racist? is a good book and I recommend it.

Good White Racist?

is available in paperback

Big Lies in a Small Town: a story of mystery, danger and a mural

Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain open in Edenton, North Carolina in March 1940 as three young children discover the body of a man. Fast forward to a prison for women in the summer of 2018 where Morgan Christopher is serving time is offered a chance for freedom. The late Jesse Jameson Williams, a famous painter, has requested in his will that Morgan restore a mural for the opening of his gallery in Edenton. Although she has never restored a painting before, she jumps at the chance to get out of prison and get a fresh start. With a firm deadline and so much riding on her finishing, Morgan is unsure how to begin. Back to December 1939, where Anna Dale learns she has been chosen to paint a mural for the Edenton Post Office from thousands of applicants. Eager for a fresh start, Anna makes a trip to Edenton to start the project. Told back and forth between 1939-1940 and the summer of 2018, the story weaves a mystery of Anna’s mural and a connection to Morgan. How are these two women connected? What is behind the mysterious images in the mural? Can Morgan finish the mural in time? Can she find the fresh start she has been hoping for?

I have read a couple of Ms. Chamberlain’s books before and loved them, so when I had the chance to read Big Lies in a Small Town, I jumped at it. And it did not disappoint. From the opening chapter to the final scene, the story draws you in to a time and place of racism, innuendo and danger. And to a mystery that the reader tries to piece together along with Morgan. I enjoyed all the characters especially Morgan as she tries to make amends for the mistakes of her past and move forward for her future. I also enjoyed Anna and how she stands up for Jesse, who is a black teen, and sees not his color but his amazing talent that would go to waste if it is not nurtured. The attitudes of the townspeople toward their friendships were on point with the time. There is so much more I wish I could say but it would ruin the twists and turns this book will take you on. Big Lies in a Small Town is a great book and I highly recommend it!

Big Lies in a Small Town

is available in hardcover, eBook and audiobook

Under Our Skin: an honest discussion of race relations in the U.S.

Under Our Skin by Benjamin Watson is a deep look into race relations in this country. Mr. Watson is currently a tight end for the Baltimore Ravens. The book is an expansion of his viral Facebook post after a grand jury returned a no bill on the charges against Officer Darren Wilson for the shooting death of Michael Brown and the riots that ensued. In the book, Mr. Watson writes with brutal honesty to both blacks and whites about our interactions with each other. He writes about what blacks and whites do and act that keep the racial divide wide. He speaks about his anger, his frustration, his fear and confusion among many other emotions. He speaks from his own experiences with racism and open conversation with white friends and teammates about racism in the United States. He admits that there are no easy answers or solutions. He still has hope that we can live together as a community.

I read Mr. Watson’s original Facebook post and I loved it. Then one day recently, I saw a program which discusses this book and I was intrigued. I immediately went online and ordered it. When it arrived, I took my time to read his words. To truly digest and comprehend his experiences and his viewpoints. Some of his points I agreed wholeheartedly and others were eye opening and hard to swallow. Although I wasn’t raised to treat anyone different because of their skin, society has an influence on how we view each other and sometimes those thoughts and ideas creep in and I hate myself for it. I highly recommend everyone read Under Our Skin.

Under Our Skin

is available at major booksellers

in paperback and eBook

An Ishmael of Syria: life as an outcast

An Ishmael of Syria by Asaad Almohammad is the story of Adam, an exiled Syrian living in Malaysia as his family still lives in his war-torn homeland. A self-proclaimed global citizen and philosopher of world events, Adam tries to make the most of his situation. However, he is met with intolerance and racism. He is a man without a country, without a home, without shelter from the cruelty of this cold world. Despite this, he does what he can for his family back home. As the news out of Syria becomes more and more distressing, Adam begins to question everything he believes about himself, God and the world around him. Will Adam ever be able to get back home? Will his family survive this terrible war?

An Ishmael of Syria is a moving and eloquent story as it unveils the events his present as well as the events of his past that brought him so far from home. The story brings to the forefront of the complexities that is the conflicts in the Middle East. Each side has what they believe is right and just and fighting against those who threatened or has taken away their homes. I suggest reading this book slowly, absorbing every description, every sight and try to imagine life as an Ishmael, an outcast. I highly recommend An Ishmael of Syria.

An Ishmael of Syria

is available on Amazon

in paperback and Kindle

as well as on Barnes and Noble

in paperback

America's Original Sin: a look into racism in America's history and today

America’s Original Sin Racism, White Privilege and the Bridge to a New America by Jim Wallis is a no hold’s bar, in your face, look into racism in America’s origins, its history and today’s modern world. Mr. Wallis sets the goal of his book to talk about racism as America’s original sin and how it lingers in our society and our criminal justice system. As a white, Christian man, and Civil Rights advocate, Mr. Wallis offers perspective from his experiences in his own life as he has seen racism and has helped battle racism. He presents the tragic stories of Trayvon Martin and Eric Garner. He talks about the increasing police shootings as Americans becomes more aware of the injustices in our society. He discusses the historical systemic racism from America’s colonial days to its foundation and its reconstruction. He also presents his ideas on how we can end racism and move forward as a united country with Christians leading the charge. As our churches need to be more colorblind and education begins at home with parents teaching and encouraging children in inclusiveness of everyone we come across in our lives.

America’s Original Sin is a powerful book which will open your eyes, challenge what you know about our country and even about yourself. While I agree with many of Mr. Wallis’ assertions and others I do not, he is encouraging an open and honest discussion about racism and race relations. We, as a country, as a society, need to honestly talk about racism, without anger and without violence. As I read, I evaluated my own prejudices as I try not to see someone for their skin color as Dr. King once dreamed. And I feel ashamed of the fear and uneasiness I feel when I walk alone and a black man is in my vicinity. I wasn’t taught to fear black men by my family. I grew in an area of diversity. I only assume where these feelings are coming from. Because of this, I encourage my daughter to interact with all the children in our neighborhood. I recommend America’s Original Sin. I warn you. It is not for the faint of heart. But if you are willing to open your heart and mind, you’ll realize your actions or inactions has kept racial lines drawn.

America’s Original Sin

is available on Amazon in hardcover and on the Kindle

as well as with Barnes and Noble

in hardcover, Nook book and audiobook

Small Great Things: a story about modern racism and prejudice

Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult is dramatic and thought provoking story about racism and how we interact with each other as members of different races. The story is told from the perspectives of a dedicated labor and delivery nurse, a White Supremacist man, and a lawyer who tries to defend her client. The story opens with Ruth, who decided to become a labor and deliver nurse after watching her mother deliver her employer’s son after she went in to labor. She is raising her son, Edison, 17, after her husband was killed in Afghanistan. Ruth comes on her shift as just another day and she is assigned to a new mother, Brittany Bauer and her new son. As she goes about her job, checking the baby, talking with the parents, she doesn’t notice that the father, Turk, is getting really tense. Soon, he has had a enough and demands to talk with Ruth’s supervisor. Turk Bauer was Ruth removed from the care of his wife and son. Why? Ruth is black. Ruth is reassigned and never sees baby Bauer again. Until one fate day when she is left alone in the nursery with the baby while another nurse sees to an emergency. Ruth notices something is wrong with baby Bauer but she hesitates. She isn’t supposed to touch this baby. After a code is called and a team works on the baby, the baby is pronounced dead. Her decision wither or not help the baby will lead to the fight for her freedom and her life. Enter Kennedy, a lawyer with the public defender’s office, who decides to take Ruth’s case. Can Kennedy disprove that Ruth’s inaction or actions caused the death of the baby? Will Ruth ever get her life back and the job she loves?

I have been a fan of Jodi Picoult’s books since I was introduced to The Storyteller. All her books cover issues and events which have no clear cut solution or resolution. And Small Great Things is no different. I was offered a pre-release copy of this book, I jumped at the chance. I chose this story in particular because it is a black nurse up against the hatred of a white supremacist. As I read this story, I was reminded of the nurse who took care of me when I had my four year old daughter. Yes, she was black and she was the sweetest person in the world. She sat and talked with me as we waited. She encouraged me as I was in active labor and she brought my new miracle in my arms. My only regret is that I do not remember her name but her kindness to me is engraved in my memory. As I read, I burned with anger at the actions and words of the white supremacist. In true Jodi Picoult fashion, Small Great Things will challenge your own thoughts on prejudice and racism and may even make you face your own that you may not even know that you had. I highly, highly recommend Small Great Things.

Small Great Things

will be available on

October 11, 2016

in hardback $28.99

and

Kindle/Nook $14.99

Then Like the Blind Man: a story of mystery and storms

Then Like the Blind Man Orbie’s Story by Freddie Owens is the story of a young boy’s experience in Kentucky’s forgotten countryside. He learns a deep, dark secret and he must find the courage to fight a growing threat.

It’s June 1959, Orbie Ray is on his way to stay with his grandparents in Harlan’s Crossroads. His stepfather, Victor, his mother, Ruby, and his sister, Missy, are continuing on to Florida where Victor is looking into a job opportunity. When Orbie first arrives, he doesn’t like his grandparents’ country house and must learn about life on a farm. He thinks back to when Victor entered their lives in 1955, his father, Jesse, worked at a steel mill in Detroit and they met Victor at a company picnic. There’s something fishy about Victor as he charms his way into the Ray family life. Victor reveals what really happened to Orbie’s dad and he is left with this information in a strange land. Orbie learns about the true nature of man and the racism that remained strong in the area. He befriends Willis and other black boys of the area as he is introduced to the strange occurrences in the area. As his stepfather and mother return, a storm is brewing both between the adults and the weather outside. With tornadoes approaching, Orbie confronts the one truly responsible for his father’s death. Will he able to save his family in time?

I enjoyed Then Like the Blind Man. It was filled with mystery as clues of what happened to Orbie’s father are revealed. It is filled with drama as Victor worms his way into the grandparents’ house and he becomes chummy with the local authorities. It was filled with strange events that could not be fully explained as Orbie learns the secrets about life around him. Once I picked up this book, I look forward to read how it ended. Would Orbie be able to confront his father’s killer? Would he be able to save his family from the storm? I highly recommend this book.

Then Like the Blind Man Orbie’s Story yy Freddie Owens

is available

on Amazon in paperback for $11.68 or on the Kindle for $4.99

The snowball effect of stereotypes to discrimination

Racism and discrimination has been a part of America since the first landing of colonists in the New World. Many people don’t believe this but there have been many racial discrimination across different ethnic and nationality groups in America’s history. The English colonists past judgment on anyone who wasn’t English. Thomas Driver of the Huffington Post wrote, “Racism is so ingrained in the American experience that no one who has grown up here is free of it.” It’s true. We may think of ourselves as not being racist but people will be shocked on how a simple little thought like stereotypes lead to prejudices which leads to racism which leads to discrimination. 

Stereotypes are beliefs that unfairly places all people in a certain group with a particular characteristics. For instance, “all Mexicans are lazy,” “Asian women are bad drivers” and “all Middle Easterners hate Americans” are a few. Not all stereotypes are negative, some are place a positive light on certain groups but still place unfair generalizations to all members. For instance, “all Asians are smart,” “all African-Americans can play basketball,” and “the French are romantics.” We all can think of people who do not fit these descriptions but they would be lumped in with these stereotypes because they happen to fit a certain ethnic group.

Prejudices are unfair feelings of dislike for a person or group because of race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, etc. This dislike is often unreasonable or illogical. How can stereotypes lead to prejudices? Think for a moment that you hold to the belief that all Mexicans are lazy and you, therefore, think that the Mexican family that lives down the street are lazy and mooching off the government for their needs. You think they are dirty because their yard may not be as pristine as yours? Do you really know that? Would it change your mind to learn that that family’s patriarch workers three jobs in order to provide for his wife and kids. The matriarch cleans every day to keep her house in order? Would it change your mind? Maybe, maybe not. If prejudices are firmly held regardless of evidence to the contrary, it will often lead to racism.

Racism is the belief that all members of each race possess characteristics or abilities specific to that race, especially characteristics to distinguish as inferior to another race. Same scenario, because you believe that the Mexican family is lazy and government moochers, you believe that you are superior to all Mexicans because you aren’t lazy and don’t have any form of government assistance. Because you believe that all Mexicans are lazy, you will probably treat all Mexicans you will met as if they don’t deserve to be in your neighborhood or even in your country. Never realizing the hardships they left to come here and how hard they work to stay in this country. You may even assume that that Mexican family are here illegally, never realizing that that family’s ancestors have been here since colonial America.

  

Racist beliefs can lead to discrimination. Discrimination is the treatment of a person or particular group of people differently, in a way that is worse than the way people are usually treated. For example, you are walking by the family’s house and you decide to allow your dog to do his business in their yard and you wouldn’t think to do it to the house next door. Why? Because the house isn’t occupied by those “dirty Mexicans.” Would you want people to treat you differently simply because you belong in a certain group? I know I wouldn’t. I want to be treated as any human with dignity and kindness. I give the same smile and hello to the Muslim woman in a hijab as I do a Christian who wears the cross or a Jew who wears the Star of David.

In conclusion, I am very aware of the stereotypes and prejudices around me and I try very hard to avoid giving them any credence. I also get upset when my husband uses them, even as a joke, because I would like my children to be part of the first generation to be free of stereotypes and prejudices. Although they will probably learn them on their own, I want them to know that everyone doesn’t fit in the same box. There are always exceptions to the rule, that one outlier which doesn’t fit the pattern and it is wrong to assume that everyone of a certain group is the same. It will take a little work but it can be done.