Wow, this book was very raw. I was not expecting a children's book to have violence in it. I love how the pictures made their feelings look real. This book can teach young children about how racism is real. I love how in the story, the brother felt guilty from what happened, but he was just a victim. Shange really brought in feelings and how one would react if this happened in the real world. ( )

In this story a little girl and her brother had been attacked by a gang of boys and racial slurs were said to them. Helene had her face painted white and her brother was beaten up. She felt ashamed an embarrassed, heartbroken and devastated. After a week of staying in her room, her grandmother helped her gather the courage to step outside and start living her life again. Once she set foot outside she saw her classmates standing there in support for her. This story is very empowering and tells a story of a very courageous girl. ( )

Dang. Whitewash is an intense story about Helene-Angel trying to walk home from school with her older brother Mauricio, a situation that should not be tough for a preschooler. I couldn't imagine having to struggle and fear for my life the way other races must have to in parts of America, it saddens me. If anyone had tried something like this on my little sister I really don't know what I would do. I related so well to Mauricio who got the crap kicked out of him and ultimately couldn't save his sister. Probably like him, I feel like her safety is my responsibility and if that happened to me, I'd feel like I failed. The art was very well done, a combination of color pencils, marker, spray paint and graffiti effects, and monotyping or painting. The buildings and walls change colors and vibrancy to enhance mood. Would recommend. ( )

This book addresses some hard to deal with stuff and would be beneficial in a classroom where there is an issue when it comes to looking differently than your peers. ( )

This powerful story of a hate crime leaves a lasting impression on all readers. Use of vivid imagery and powerful text make this picture book effective in presenting the overall meaning that racial discrimination and racism is wrong. I would recommend this picture book to all readers. ( )