Dear Justyce
#2 of 3 in Dear Martin Series
on Goodreads (18,531)
What’s inside...
An NPR Best Book of the Year, the stunning sequel to the critically acclaimed #1 New York Times bestseller Dear Martin. The story follows Vernell LaQuan Banks, a teen from the same neighborhood as Justyce McAllister, the protagonist of Dear Martin. While Justyce attends Yale University, Quan is incarcerated at the Fulton Regional Youth Detention Center. Through letters to Justyce, flashbacks, and vignettes, Quan shares his experiences in the flawed American juvenile justice system. The narrative explores Quan's troubled home life, misunderstandings at school, encounters with the police, and the sequence of events that lead to him being charged with murder. A compelling and raw portrayal of a Black boy ensnared by a broken criminal justice system.
Character compass
Vernell Laquan Banks Jr.
Justyce Mcallister
Trey
Discussion points
How did Quan's experiences shape his view on justice and friendship?
What similarities and differences do you see between Justyce and Quan's lives?
Why is it important to have someone who believes in you, like Justyce does for Quan?
How do the letters between Justyce and Quan help them understand each other better?
What changes would you like to see in the justice system based on Quan's story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about Quan’s challenges and triumphs, making connections to their personal experiences.
Discuss the importance of empathy and understanding different perspectives, highlighting interactions between characters in the book.
Ask your child what they would write in a letter to Quan, focusing on words of support and understanding.
Explore the theme of justice together, discussing real-world examples and how they relate to the events in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'Dear Justyce', the protagonist's struggles bring light to the importance of understanding others' circumstances. The story portrays the challenges faced by youth in the juvenile justice system.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to understand and empathize with peers who might have different life experiences, fostering a more inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The book illustrates the character's journey through significant challenges, emphasizing how determination and hope can lead to overcoming difficult situations.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persisting through personal challenges, whether they're academic setbacks or social conflicts.
Example Lesson: Importance of education
Explanation: The narrative showcases how education can be a powerful tool for change and personal development, even in the most trying circumstances.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value and pursue their education as a means to improve their lives and the lives of those around them.
Example Lesson: Justice and advocacy
Explanation: The protagonist's story brings to light issues within the justice system, encouraging a dialogue about fairness and advocacy for change.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be aware of justice issues and possibly engage in community actions or discussions about making fair and equitable choices.