Reviews

If this book does nothing else, it's going to piss you off. Hooper brings readers a story of unapologetic student activism. A raw portrait of what it looks like when you carve space out for yourself in a world that doesn't make room for you. I enjoyed the authenticity of this story, appreciating the inclusion of Caribbean dialect and culture. This story touches on many vital issues, including systemic racism, immigration, educational resource scarcity, and academic violence. It also emphasizes the pressure and responsibility black boys take on at such a young age; having to grow up quickly and fight in a constant internal battle of not wanting to be seen as a failure or disappointment to their family. I loved the hilarious character banter throughout this story, as it was so organic. While I enjoyed this read, it was missing something for me. It took longer than I wanted to get into the story; however, once it did pick up, it kept my interest until the end. Additionally, while including Caribbean culture and language brought authenticity, I would've loved to have a glossary while reading to assist with some of the terminology. Overall, this was an enjoyable debut. If you're from Brooklyn, this story will feel like home.

bookdragon217's review against another edition

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dark emotional informative inspiring reflective tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

"Wars are either fought in secret or they're right in your face."

True True by Don Hooper was a gut pinching read for me because it shines a spotlight on how the education system is stacked against Black students, the Double burden of being a Black immigrant and how the idea of achieving the American Dream through hard work and education comes with a daily dose of violence, racism and microaggressions if youre a Black student. I was triggered by so many of the things that happened to Gil in this book because they were some of my same experiences, which soured me on the idea of attending college when I was a teenager.

I am, however, grateful that this book exists because it gives voice to the plight of Black American students and those of immigrant parents. Hooper's writing is raw, emotional and honest and it makes this one a book I will forever recommend because of it's importance to Black educational experiences. Thanks to @penguinteen @cocoachapters for the opportunity to share my 10 thoughts on this one.

🇯🇲 Privilege is not only a birthright but a way of life that is taught and modeled by white supremacist parents.
🇯🇲 Black students of immigrant parents carry a heavy burden to make their parents' dreams come true, as opposed to being able to have their own dreams.
🇯🇲 Black students are never safe in all white spaces and face daily racism.
🇯🇲 White women often name themselves as allies without actually doing the work of decolonization and continue to cross boundaries.
🇯🇲 Black people are never centered in diversity & inclusion efforts. HBCU tours are not offered.
🇯🇲 Black students' intelligence and achievements are always attributed to affirmative action.
🇯🇲 Black people's work, especially in STEM is often stolen and never credited.
🇯🇲 White supremacists will never give up any power and have no problem flexing their money and influence to ensure their children stay on top.
🇯🇲 Black students have the extra burden of not only representing themselves but their entire race, community, neighborhood, gender, etc.
🇯🇲 In order to achieve true equity in education, Black people need to be in positions of power and have decision making ability.

Content Warnings

lelliereads's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced

3.0

alliepascal's review against another edition

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"...everywhere make it abundantly clear the colonizers have returned." *

This was good! I liked the characters, especially Gil, and the overall progression of the story. Gil was a breath of fresh air. He knows exactly who he is and what he wants to do with his life, and he removes himself from the comfort of his last year at high school with friends in order to attend a prep school to better prepare for college.The author did an incredible job rooting Gil in his community and then dropping him into Augusten Prep like a fish out of water. Hooper's writing in general was really good.

styleandsavings's review against another edition

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challenging hopeful inspiring medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Thank you partner @cocoachapters and @penguinteen for the gifted copy True True by Don P. Hooper

Gil, a teen living in Brooklyn transfers from public school to a private academy for his senior year of high school to participate in the robotics program. Shortly after the semester begins, he is the victim of a racist attack by the school’s football players. The incident spirals and Gil learns about the systemic racism at the foundation of Augustin Prep’s legacy. He unites with other students to expose and fix the school’s culture

Gil and his family and friends were likable characters that readers will root for.

Gil is goal-oriented, cares for his family (including his beloved aging Granma) and tries to be a good friend to Rej and Stretch even when school activities become overwhelming. At the Always Persevere dojo, Gil is a leader and a “big bro” that Kenya and the younger martial arts students look up to.

I liked that Gil looked to a book for guidance. Reading The Art of War helped him learn to strategize and plan before reacting. I also appreciated that as an aspiring journalist, Tammy showed Gil and the other students that there is power in telling your story and there is power in community and allyship.

I understand that this is a YA book and the teens were the main characters, but I would have liked to know more about Ms. Willis, Ms. Column and Sensai. Maybe there could be another book about Augustin Prep? I also would have liked to see Black alumni become involved.

Reading this book with a teen in your life is a good way to discuss difficult topics.

Tough Topics: police brutality, overt racism, microaggressions, inequity in education, immigration, politics, allyship, dementia, stress

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