The Black Kids

Christina Hammonds Reed's debut novel, 'The Black Kids,' is a powerful coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the 1992 Los Angeles riots. It follows Ashley Bennett, a privileged Black high school senior, whose seemingly perfect life is irrevocably altered by the acquittal of the LAPD officers in the Rodney King beating. As the city erupts in protest and violence, Ashley is forced to confront her own racial identity, the complexities of class, the fragility of her family's image, and the shifting loyalties of her predominantly white friend group. The book delves into themes of systemic racism, social justice, and personal awakening, making it an excellent choice for mature young adult readers ready for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant historical fiction.

A New York Times bestseller A William C. Morris Award Finalist “Should be required reading in every classroom.” —Nic Stone, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Dear Martin “A true love letter to Los Angeles.” —Brandy Colbert, award-winning author of Little & Lion “A brilliantly poetic take on one of the most defining moments in Black American history.” —Tiffany D. Jackson, author of Grown and Monday’s Not Coming Perfect for fans of The Hate U Give, this unforgettable coming-of-age debut novel explores issues of race, class, and violence through the eyes of a wealthy black teenager whose family gets caught in the vortex of the 1992 Rodney King Riots. Los Angeles, 1992 Ashley Bennett and her friends are living the charmed life. It’s the end of senior year and they’re spending more time at the beach than in the classroom. They can already feel the sunny days and endless possibilities of summer. Everything changes one afternoon in April, when four LAPD officers are acquitted after beating a black man named Rodney King half to death. Suddenly, Ashley’s not just one of the girls. She’s one of the black kids. As violent protests engulf LA and the city burns, Ashley tries to continue on as if life were normal. Even as her self-destructive sister gets dangerously involved in the riots. Even as the model black family façade her wealthy and prominent parents have built starts to crumble. Even as her best friends help spread a rumor that could completely derail the future of her classmate and fellow black kid, LaShawn Johnson. With her world splintering around her, Ashley, along with the rest of LA, is left to question who is the us? And who is the them?