Kneel

Black American Russell, a rising football star, and his friends are constantly subjected to racism and when his best friend is unfairly arrested and removed from the team, Russell is torn whether to remain silent or speak up. He chooses to kneel during the national anthem which causes him to become a target for hate, but he learns that individual actions and words can indeed be a catalyst for change. Useful as a class novel or for small literature groups, this engaging novel can help integrate current events into the classroom and launch discussion of systemic and casual racism, microaggressions, police brutality, social injustice, poverty, and advocacy. Opportunities for cross-curricular learning.