cover image Steal This Country: A Handbook for Resistance, Persistence, and Fixing Almost Everything

Steal This Country: A Handbook for Resistance, Persistence, and Fixing Almost Everything

Alexandra Styron. Viking, $19.99 (224p) ISBN 978-0-451-47937-2

In this rousing call for activism in the Abbie Hoffman tradition, Styron provides a stimulating and comprehensive guide to advocating for progressive change. Tapping into the post-2016 election dismay and energy prevalent among “woke” teens, the chapters highlight issues of climate change, immigration, LGBTQ rights, racial justice, religious understanding, and women’s rights. Styron suggests ways that kids can become involved both at and outside school, while experts and trailblazers speak to their own experiences taking stands (or a knee) and facing injustice. Particularly valuable is Styron’s discussion of practical techniques for conducting walkouts and sit-ins, talking to elected representatives, protecting privacy when blogging, and boycotting. This highly topical, inspiring volume informs readers how to be creative and persistent. Fourteen-year-old Tokata Iron Eyes reinforces the message: “By incorporating... values into our lives, we will empower others to do the same. Together we will heal, and together we will make change.” Ages 12–up. (Sept.)