From the Publisher
"This book from the former NFL player and current Fox Sports analyst provides a new voice in the dialogue about racism." —Washington Post
"This incredibly important book tackles all the race-related questions people have but are afraid to ask." —GMA.com
“What Emmanuel Acho has to say is important.” —Matthew McConaughey
"The author delivers exactly what he promises in the title, tackling difficult topics with the depth of an engaged cultural thinker and the style of an experienced wordsmith. Throughout, Acho is a friendly guide, seeking to sow understanding even if it means risking just a little discord." —Kirkus Reviews
"An absolute must-read...Emmanuel Acho dives into important subjects like cultural appropriation and white privilege, urging you to find a way to join in the fight against racism." —Cosmopolitan
MARCH 2022 - AudioFile
Narrated by the author, this audio program feels like an evening with a good friend who doesn’t shy away from awkward questions. Emanuel Acho, a former NFL player and current Fox Sports analyst, brings a fresh perspective to such questions as: “Why can’t I use the N-word?” and “Can white privilege be alleviated?” His comments, which include history, real-life examples, and wry humor, ensure that listeners feel challenged and supported. Referencing authors such as Ibram X. Kendi and Robin DiAngelo, Acho brings a fresh voice to complex topics. A personal interview with his editor, great production standards, and his personality make this an accessible listen. Listeners may become uncomfortable but will want to keep listening. C.F. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award, 2022 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine
Kirkus Reviews
2020-10-13
A former NFL player casts his gimlet eye on American race relations.
In his first book, Acho, an analyst for Fox Sports who grew up in Dallas as the son of Nigerian immigrants, addresses White readers who have sent him questions about Black history and culture. “My childhood,” he writes, “was one big study abroad in white culture—followed by studying abroad in black culture during college and then during my years in the NFL, which I spent on teams with 80-90 percent black players, each of whom had his own experience of being a person of color in America. Now, I’m fluent in both cultures: black and white.” While the author avoids condescending to readers who already acknowledge their White privilege or understand why it’s unacceptable to use the N-word, he’s also attuned to the sensitive nature of the topic. As such, he has created “a place where questions you may have been afraid to ask get answered.” Acho has a deft touch and a historian’s knack for marshaling facts. He packs a lot into his concise narrative, from an incisive historical breakdown of American racial unrest and violence to the ways of cultural appropriation: Your friend respecting and appreciating Black arts and culture? OK. Kim Kardashian showing off her braids and attributing her sense of style to Bo Derek? Not so much. Within larger chapters, the text, which originated with the author’s online video series with the same title, is neatly organized under helpful headings: “Let’s rewind,” “Let’s get uncomfortable,” “Talk it, walk it.” Acho can be funny, but that’s not his goal—nor is he pedaling gotcha zingers or pleas for headlines. The author delivers exactly what he promises in the title, tackling difficult topics with the depth of an engaged cultural thinker and the style of an experienced wordsmith. Throughout, Acho is a friendly guide, seeking to sow understanding even if it means risking just a little discord.
This guide to Black culture for White people is accessible but rarely easy.