The Burning: Black Wall Street and the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921 (Young Readers Edition)

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Description

One of the worst acts of racist violence in American history took place when a White mob decimated the thriving Black community of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Text has mild profanity, graphic violence, racism, criminal activity and disturbing imagery.

Quick Summary

Imagine a city block that was so prosperous and proud it earned the nickname Black Wall Street then watch it go up in flames because a white mob decided it couldn't exist. Hilary Beard weaves together eyewitness testimonies, newspaper clippings, and powerful photos to show the thriving Greenwood neighborhood before the massacre, the terrifying hours when the violence erupted, and the long fight for justice that followed. It's a gut-wrenching read that doesn't pull punches, so parents should know it contains mild profanity, graphic violence, and racist language that reflects the real horror of the event. Kids who love stories about perseverance and people standing up against injustice will find this both eye-opening and motivating. If you've already read Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi's *Stamped* and wanted more detail on one specific episode of racist violence, this YA edition gives you that depth without losing the accessible tone. It's the kind of history that sticks with you, making you want to learn more about the community that rebuilt itself after tragedy.