On this episode of “Everything is Canon”, Steve talks with author Christina Hammonds Reed all about her debut novel, “The Black Kids”!
We talk about how relevant this book is today, the current state of affairs, and her great taste in music. Additionally, since the book has been optioned, we talk about how thrilling it is to have your debut novel turned into a feature length film and what’s next for her.
Enjoy!
Los Angeles, 1992
Ashley Bennett and her friends are living the charmed life. It’s the end of senior year and they’re spending more time at the beach than in the classroom. They can already feel the sunny days and endless possibilities of summer.
Everything changes one afternoon in April, when four LAPD officers are acquitted after beating a black man named Rodney King half to death. Suddenly, Ashley’s not just one of the girls. She’s one of the black kids.
As violent protests engulf LA and the city burns, Ashley tries to continue on as if life were normal. Even as her self-destructive sister gets dangerously involved in the riots. Even as the model black family façade her wealthy and prominent parents have built starts to crumble. Even as her best friends help spread a rumor that could completely derail the future of her classmate and fellow black kid, LaShawn Johnson.
With her world splintering around her, Ashley, along with the rest of LA, is left to question who is the us? And who is the them?
To order a copy of “The Black Kids”, click HERE!
