Not My Idea

By Anastasia Higginbotham

Part of the Ordinary Terrible Things series

A child's journey to understand privilege and seek justice in a racially divided world.

4.0/5 Goodreads · 1,505 ratings

64 pages

$18.95Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In 'Not My Idea: A Book About Whiteness,' a young child begins to question the world around them, uncovering the realities of privilege and power. As they navigate these complex truths, they are challenged to confront racial injustice and consider their role in fostering change. This timely picture book invites children and parents to engage in honest conversations about race, encouraging curiosity and a commitment to justice. Will they embrace the call to action and help shape a more equitable future?

From the publisher

A WHITE RAVEN 2019 SELECTION

NAMED ONE OF SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL‘S BEST BOOKS OF 2018

Not My Idea: A Book About Whiteness is a picture book about racism and racial justice, inviting white children and parents to become curious about racism, accept that it’s real, and cultivate justice.

This book does a phenomenal job of explaining how power and privilege affect us from birth, and how we can educate ourselves…Not My Idea is an incredibly important book, one that we should all be using as a catalyst for our anti-racist education. –THE TINY ACTIVIST

Quite frankly, the first book I’ve seen that provides an honest explanation for kids about the state of race in America today. –ELIZABETH BIRD, librarian

“It’s that exact mix of true-to-life humor and unflinching honesty that makes Higginbotham’s book work so well…”–PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (*Starred Review)

A much-needed title that provides a strong foundation for critical discussions of white people and racism, particularly for young audiences. Recommended for all collections. –SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL (*Starred Review)

A necessary children’s book about whiteness, white supremacy, and resistance… Important, accessible, needed. –KIRKUS REVIEWS

A timely story that addresses racism, civic responsibility, and the concept of whiteness. –FOREWORD REVIEWS

For white folks who aren’t sure how to talk to their kids about race, this book is the perfect beginning. –O MAGAZINE

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