“When you know better, do better.” – Maya Angelou
"A deftly crafted, thought-provoking, and solid work of YA historical fiction." —Midwest Book Review
In the explosive summer of 1968, a line is drawn. In a nation grieving the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., that line runs straight through Wichita, Kansas—and right down 13-year-old TJ Crowley’s property line.
TJ’s summer is already in turmoil. With his father gone and his brother off to Vietnam, he’s left alone with his unhinged, racist mother who drowns her fears in alcohol. Her answer to the social upheaval is to lock the doors and trust in her old flame, a Klansman who vows to keep their all-white neighborhood pure.
Their resolve is immediately tested when the Washingtons, a Black family with a dream of a better life, move into the house next door. They are determined, dignified, and will not be intimidated.
Working alongside his racist "Uncle Ray" TJ helps build a privacy fence between the two houses. His mom swears that she'll ground him forever if he ever goes next door. But a fence can’t stop the sounds of his future classmate, Ivy, practicing her cheerleading routines. It can’t silence the spirituals sung by her father, Dr. Washington. And it cannot halt the questions stirring in TJ’s own mind.
As he is pulled deeper into the escalating conflict, TJ must begin his own real education: confronting the ugly truths of his heritage and discovering the humanity that fence is meant to deny. In a world demanding he choose a side, he is faced with a life-altering decision: take refuge in the hatred he’s always known or risk everything for the neighbors he is just beginning to understand.
NOW AN AUDIE-AWARD WINNING AUDIO DRAMA
The Real Education of TJ Crowley: Coming of Age on the Redline.
Featuring an all-star cast of 15 actors, this immersive production brings the story to life in an unforgettable way. The audio drama has received rave reviews and earned the Audie Award for Best Young Adult Audiobook.
“A slice of history that stays with the listener... performed by a gifted cast, with stellar narration by Dani Martineck, Dion Graham, and Tavia Gilbert. The gospel music of the ARISE Ensemble enhances the experience.” — AudioFile
Parental Advisory: This production contains mature themes and language, including the N-word, used for historical accuracy, and is recommended for a PG-13 audience.
