I’m Judging You: The Do-Better Manual

Luvvie Ajayi can rant and rave all she wants because, in her own inimitable rap style, she says what we all should hear. Her harangues on civility, courtesy, and good behavior should be shouted out to our politicians, her talks on fairness need to be studied by CEOs, and more serious discussions about the chronic disease of racism should serve as fodder for introspection and debate. In layman’s language, using wily wit with her earthy brand of common sense, this teacher can tell us all how we can and should do better. She challenges the designs of the feminist movement because of its exclusivity, roars about privilege for certain groups fostering discrimination, and screams that racism is for assholes. Like a den mother, she encourages girls to believe in themselves and chastises boys to behave as respectful gentlemen. When dictionary English does not meet her rhythmic need, she composes her own language, such as “alphfet” for outfit or “uglass” for ugly ass. And her stories of her Nigerian background, along with our misconceptions about Africa, are enlightening. She makes us look in the mirror to see the real, and too often flawed, self. This book should be adopted as an essential part of the school curriculum!