This was a really powerful read. Written as a letter from father to son, Between the World and Me is an unflinching discussion of what it means to be Black in America. The author speaks his truth in a way that is unapologetic, candid, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful. We learn not only his story, but how our country's past dictates the present for an entire population of people in a system that was designed to oppress non-white cultures, specifically Black people. This isn't so much written FOR white people, although I think it's an important read that could benefit anyone who is looking to humble themselves and check their privilege.

As I do with most books I read, I looked through reviews before writing mine. I specifically looked at the more critical reviews, because I just didn't understand how anyone could read what I read and give it one star, unless they were racist internet trolls. I saw one review that said that this book was just an angry Black man who hates white people ranting for a couple hundred pages. First of all, that wasn't how I interpreted this book at all. I listened to this on audiobook, and the author himself narrates his story. He is very up front with his son about the facts of how Black people are treated in this country, but he wasn't ranting, in tone or in message. But also, even if he was ranting and angry...so what? He has a right to those feelings. They are completely valid. He didn't say anything that wasn't true.

I thought this was really well-written, evocative and emotional. He has written some other books that I will definitely be looking into.