How Children’s Books can be Tools for Resistance: A Conversation with Dr. Ibram X. Kendi

Nov 30, 2022

Dr. Ibram X. Kendi is an award-winning historian who is known for his best-selling books on antiracism. But a few years ago, he also started writing books for very young children, including a new book “Magnolia Flower,” which he adapted from a short story written by Zora Neale Hurston. In this special episode of Early Risers, Dr. Kendi reflects on his personal journey as a parent and children’s book author, including how children’s books can teach children about cultivating love as a tool for resistance.

Early Risers Season 3 Episode 7 Discussion Guide

Episode resources:

Dr. Ibram X. Kendi has published several books for young children, including “Antiracist Baby,” “Goodnight Racism,” and most recently “Magnolia Flower.”

“My Family’s Doll Test”: Dr. Kendi’s 2022 essay in The Atlantic about the Clark doll test experiments from the 1940s and the importance of being intentional about representation in children’s toys and books.

“Dr. Ibram X. Kendi Recommends 6 Books to Help Your Kids Understand Race”: Dr. Kendi’s 2021 interview with NPR.