We Are Not Broken

We Are Not Broken, George M. Johnson's childhood memoir, the sequel to his All Boys Aren't Blue, is a loving and brilliant tribute to the central figure in his life in his growing up years—his grandmother. Along with his older cousins, Rall and Rasul, and his little brother, Garrett, he spent afternoons after school and weekends at her Big Yellow House. It's also a tribute to her peers, the other Black grandmothers who through physical and emotional labor held their families together and taught their grandchildren their worth in a world that was far from welcoming and often downright hostile. Johnson's memories are candid and evocative.
Embedded in the tales of joy and sorrow, love and loss there is pointed criticism of the larger world: its acceptance of harsh physical punishments that left generations of children traumatized, the racism that put Black youth in frequent jeopardy, and the homophobia, sexism, and patriarchal ideologies upheld by the Black church.
Johnson has a poignant message for readers.
"Black boys in society are often seen as adults by the age of twelve. We are viewed as dangerous and more prone to violence, and often left broken. This book is attempt to change our narrative and give voice to our stories through our own eyes. Most importantly, this is an opportunity to disprove any notion that Black boys don't deserve love, affection, care, and the space to be open, vulnerable, emotional, and kind."
On a purrrsonal note, Orono Public Library's Volunteer Appreciation Night was truly special. The refreshments were a sophisticated blend of sweet and savory. The appreciation gifts were flower filled glass vases. The speaker gave us a sneak peek at what the library will look like after its long awaited expansion. Such an exciting prospect!
A great big shout out goes out to librarians for putting on such a fine event.
Jules Hathaway