From Kirkus: "A comprehensive, careful account [of the Chicago Race Riot of 1919] (source notes, bibliography, map, index)."

I was at a museum at saw an exhibit about the 1919 riot and this book was listed as a resource. the audiobook was brief but clear, informative. It started with the incident at the 29th St beach and then went back a bit to develop the story of the history of Black Chicago, the Great Migration, the meat packing industry and attempts at unionization, World War I, and then circling back to the riot and its aftermath. It struck me as the author concluded the book taking about other periods of racial unrest and violence how frequently the same story happens throughout history and the impact of racism, particularly systemic racism has had leading to these events again and again.
I appreciated the straightforward way to learn about the summer of 1919 with this well-researched YA nonfiction work. ( )

This is a nonfiction story based on the Chicago Race riot of 1919. The book tells the story of three black teenagers who went swimming in Lake Michigan and ended up accidentally swimming too close to a "white" beach. An enraged white man started throwing rocks at them and ended up striking and killing one of the boys. Racial conflict and violence erupted on the beach and in the city of Chicago. The book is also a study of social and racial matters in the United States and the connection between economics and strife. The book has a great layout and is rich in its history. There are many photos, and maps that that can be used as visuals in the classroom. The author is clear about the plight of the immigrants, both Black and European, and the desperation of so many, but she also plainly calls out the greed and cruelty of others.
I felt like I was there with her writing. I could feel how the characters felt, the fear, the anger, tension, the helplessness and hopelessness. The author doesn't just tell the story she tells the story of why. Why the slow progress in our country on racial matters.

The book was an impressive read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think your students will too. ( )

Recommended Ages: Gr. 7-12

Plot Summary: Tells the story of what led up to the race riots during WWI era in Chicago, including the way that neighborhoods were designated for certain races, the overcrowding of the black neighborhood especially after WWII started, labor unions, and how races interacted and got along with each other especially at the meat-packing business at the Union Stock Yards.

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Recurring Themes: racism,

Controversial Issues: I didn't keep track

Personal Thoughts: Fantastic storytelling. Full of information.

Genre: Nonfiction, history

Pacing: medium-fast
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The book was amazing but the title isn't very fitting to the information given. ( )