Black Boys Matter: The Eight Biggest Obstacles Facing Young African American Males and How to Overcome Them

This book aims to serve as both mirror and roadmap. I have identified eight issues that are most critical in the lives of young African American males: income inequality, anti-intellectualism, racial stereotypes, social promotion and retention, incarceration, inadequately trained teachers, ineffective assessments, and the lack of early childhood intervention. Subsequent chapters will begin by addressing those issues supported by statistics and stories culled both from my personal experience and from the experiences of others. The chapters present a general discussion of the topic and examine efforts to overcome the difficulties. Each chapter will close with a substantial section on solutions to the problems. The discussion concentrates on what works—the practical steps to move us from the current crisis to a future of parity and promise.