All American Boys
Book • 2021
by Jason Reynolds, Brendan Kiely
A bag of chips. That's all sixteen-year-old Rashad is looking for. What he finds instead is a fist-happy cop, Paul, who mistakes Rashad for a shoplifter, mistakes Rashad's pleadings that he's stolen nothing for belligerence, mistakes Rashad's every flinch at every punch the cop throws as further resistance and refusal to STAY STILL as ordered. But how can you stay still when someone is pounding your face into the pavement?
There were witnesses: Quinn - a varsity basketball player and Rashad's classmate who has been raised by Paul since his own father died in Afghanistan - and a video camera. Soon the beating is all over the news and Paul is getting threatened with accusations of prejudice and racial brutality. Quinn refuses to believe that the man who has basically been his saviour could possibly be guilty. But then Rashad is absent. And absent again. And again. And the basketball team - half of whom are Rashad's best friends - start to take sides. As does the school. And the town. Simmering tensions threaten to explode as Rashad and Quinn are forced to face decisions and consequences they had never considered before.
All American Boys
Book • 2021
by Jason Reynolds, Brendan Kiely
A bag of chips. That's all sixteen-year-old Rashad is looking for. What he finds instead is a fist-happy cop, Paul, who mistakes Rashad for a shoplifter, mistakes Rashad's pleadings that he's stolen nothing for belligerence, mistakes Rashad's every flinch at every punch the cop throws as further resistance and refusal to STAY STILL as ordered. But how can you stay still when someone is pounding your face into the pavement?
There were witnesses: Quinn - a varsity basketball player and Rashad's classmate who has been raised by Paul since his own father died in Afghanistan - and a video camera. Soon the beating is all over the news and Paul is getting threatened with accusations of prejudice and racial brutality. Quinn refuses to believe that the man who has basically been his saviour could possibly be guilty. But then Rashad is absent. And absent again. And again. And the basketball team - half of whom are Rashad's best friends - start to take sides. As does the school. And the town. Simmering tensions threaten to explode as Rashad and Quinn are forced to face decisions and consequences they had never considered before.
Suggested Age
Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.
This story explores complex themes of police brutality, racial bias, and societal division. It requires a mature understanding to process the emotional weight and ethical dilemmas presented.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
There is no sexual content or nudity depicted in this story.
Violence & Gore
The story involves a significant act of police brutality, including punches and a character being beaten to the pavement. There may also be depictions of threats and escalating conflict.
Profanity
The story is likely to contain moderate profanity, with instances of mild swear words such as 'd*mn' or 'sh*t' used to express anger or frustration, given the intense and emotional nature of the events.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
While not a central theme, there might be very brief background mentions or implications of alcohol or smoking, common in realistic teen dramas.
Frightening Scenes
The film deals with themes of police brutality and racial tension, which can be intense and disturbing. The depiction of the physical assault and the resulting community unrest can create significant emotional tension.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This is a story about a Black teenager who is wrongly accused and hurt by a police officer. It shows how his community and classmates react, and the difficult choices people have to make when something unfair happens.
Content Warnings
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
The film deals with intense themes of police brutality and racial injustice, which can be disturbing. It sparks conversations about bias, law enforcement, and the consequences of violence. The narrative focuses on the aftermath and the societal reaction.
What Kids Can Learn
Children can learn about the importance of speaking out against wrongdoing, the complexities of race relations, and how communities can come together to address injustice. It encourages empathy and critical thinking about societal issues.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
Offers a platform for important discussions on social justice and provides a nuanced exploration of difficult contemporary issues.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
The narrative highlights the importance of speaking out against injustice and challenging prejudice. It demonstrates the power of empathy and understanding to bridge divides.
Positive Role Models
Rashad's resilience in the face of adversity and Quinn's evolving moral compass offer examples of courage and personal growth. Both characters navigate difficult choices with increasing integrity.
Diverse Representations
The story centers on a Black teenager and directly confronts issues of racial profiling and police misconduct, offering a critical perspective on systemic inequalities.
Educational Value
Provides a powerful lens for understanding social justice issues, systemic bias, and the impact of individual actions on a community. It fosters critical thinking about fairness and accountability.
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