The Color of a Lie

     Following the horrific second World War returning soldiers and their spouses wanted a return to normalcy more than anything else  The Levittowns, suburban developments of mass produced identical houses, epitomized the safety and prosperity they longed for. But they had their dark side. Kim Johnson's historical novel, The Color of a Lie, brings this dark side vividly to life for YA readers.

     Calvin is in a real bind. Following a tragedy in Chicago his father has moved the remaining members of his family to Levittown in Pennsylvania. There's one major problem. Although they're light enough to pass they're Black. So they've had to invent whole new identities. 

     "'You can be you,' Dad said. Just watch how you talk and who you friendly with.'

     I almost unraveled right then, knowing he meant no Black friends. I flung a betrayed look to Mom. This fresh start wouldn't just be about starting a new life. It'd be about playing white."

     An allegedly haunted woods separates from the Capewoods, an integrated community. Calvin's older brother, Robert, lives, running a last chance boarding school for kids who wouldn't be welcome in regular schools. It's also where Lily, a Black girl whom Calvin has a serious crush on lives with her family. She's attending his otherwise all white high school where she is not at all welcome. 

     Calvin finds himself strongly attracted to this place where he can be himself. He can't stay away even he knows that he and his family would be in real danger if anyone from Levittown found out where he is going and what he's doing there.

     In her author's note Johnson reminds readers that this isn't just dry dusty old history. 

     "Where one resides continues to have far-reaching implications, influencing access to quality education, employment prospects, and overall quality of life. Understanding this historical context is critical, as it brings to light the deeply rooted social inequities that persist today."

     She leaves readers with some thought provoking questions and important resources. In my opinion The Color of a Lie is a very valuable acquisition for school and public libraries. 

On a purrrsonal note, today was UMaine's Student Organization Fair. There were over 200 fine groups recruiting members. It makes me so proud to be a Black Bear and so excited for the school year. 

A great big shout out goes out to all who put work into putting on this fine event.

Jules Hathaway 

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