Allyship as Action: 7 Ways to Advocate for Others

Gr 4-8–A succinct, honest overview on allyship. Divided into three large topics: Allies are Willing to Continually Reflect, Listen, and Learn; Allies Know that Allyship Requires Action; and Allies Understand that Allyship isn’t Easy or Comfortable, Yet Are Up for the Challenge. There are examples for each topic presenting different hypotheticals followed by a “Pause to Think” graphic and “Spark Your Thinking” box with questions to consider. A pink column of defined terms is also included. Most pages have icons scattered about, some have lists of questions, quotes from kids on allyship, and quotes from authors or activists. The color drawings feature a mix of kids and adults, with different ethnicities and abilities in school and home settings. Different perspectives are highlighted by a color background. Some pages feel cluttered with all the graphics, but readers won’t mind. Middle schoolers will appreciate the accessible text, which never feels preachy or pratronizing. The table of contents has a content warning for some of the situations presented, followed by an author’s welcome. Back matter includes print and online sources, acknowledgements, and an index. The author and illustrator’s information conclude the book.