Why Did I Listen To This Is My America by Kim Johnson?
This Is My America by Kim Johnson is such an important book. The topic it covers is absolutely relevant to the world in which we live and move. I also think, unfortunately, many teens reading it will be able to relate. I knew that I had to read this book. When I saw that the audiobook was narrated by Bahni Turpin, my mind was immediately made up with regards to the format that I would read this book in.
What’s The Story Here?
Tracy Beaumont writes weekly letters to Innocence X which is a program similar to The Innocence Project – where the aim is to free people who have been wrongly convicted. Tracy’s father is an innocent Black man who is waiting on death row and his time is running out. Things go from bad to worse for Tracy when in the middle of the night, the police arrive at her house to arrest her brother Jamal. Unfortunately, Jamal is under suspicion for the murder of a white girl. Jamal is now on the run. Innocence X does end up taking on the case. However, this causes tensions within Tracy’s Texas town to explode – particularly between the police, the people who trust the police, and those who don’t. Tracy plans to get to the bottom of what has happened, but will also uncover some family secrets along the way.
What Did I Think Of This Is My America by Kim Johnson?
This Is My America explores the unjust incarceration of Black people in America. It goes into depth on just how unfair the criminal justice system can be – particularly when you are poor and of color. As it turns out, justice is not blind, as much as we wish it would be. I felt like Kim Johnson’s book is an honest and clear eyed look at the system. It does not pull any punches. Granted, I am glad that it ends on a hopeful note and everything plays out okay. Also, Tracy was interesting. I liked her passion and how she even runs know your rights classes.
How’s The Narration?
As I mentioned before, the audiobook of This Is My America is narrated by Bahni Turpin. It is 9 hours 34 minutes long. Turpin is a total professional in her narration as expected. She’s a great narrator and absolutely nails this book. This audiobook is engaging. A must listen.
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This is one of my favorite performances by Bahni Turpin!